UNION'S CLINIC REACHES OUT TO NEIGHBORHOOD

The Craftsman Independent Union of Cape Girardeau recently purchased and opened a family medical clinic at 24 N. Sprigg. The idea was to provide medical care to the union's 800 members. But the union went a step further. It extended medical care to those living near the clinic in need of medical care. That certainly was a random act of kindness.

The clinic will accept Medicare and Medicaid payments from community residents. Finding a doctor who accepts new Medicaid patients can be somewhat difficult. Those who can't pay and don't have Medicare or Medicaid will be seen on a case-by-case basis.

The Midtown Family Medical Center is run by Dr. Robert L. Hoffman, a family practitioner. The clinic has the equipment to perform X-rays, electrocardiograms, breathing treatments and minor surgeries. It also has a laboratory to run various tests. Craftsman Independent Union members can still see any doctor they choose. But if they receive medical care through the Midtown clinic, the deductible costs are waived and prescriptions are free.

The clinic is dedicated to Velma M. Kelley, mother of Craftsman president Fred D. Kelley. She ran a family grocery store in what was then known as Smelterville, an impoverished area of South Cape Girardeau. She was known for never turning away the needy. Many remember her as a generous woman who helped look after neighborhood children.

This clinic follows other community-service projects carried out by the union each year. Members typically donate money each year to be used by the annual Toybox drive, which gives Christmas toys to needy children. Last year the organization also distributed about 670 Christmas food baskets to the needy.

The Midtown Family Medical Center is a fine tribute to the late Mrs. Kelley. It also provides a great way for the Craftsman Independent Union to reach out into the community with a helping hand.