More than 200 people signed up to receive free services at a pop-up event Friday in Battle Ground

Paul Valencia
ClarkCountyToday.com

More than 200 people showed up, signed in, and took advantage of the opportunity to receive free care and free services at a pop-up Thrive 2 Survive event at Battle Ground HealthCare on Friday.

Beyond the medical and dental care provided at the free clinic, a number of other service agencies set up shop along the sidewalk and the parking area, giving those in need a chance at a one-stop shopping experience, if you will.

The Humane Society brought its mobile unit to care for pets. The Clark County Food Bank was there. So, too, were mental health experts, hair stylists for haircuts, and other health and welfare services, including Community in Motion.

“It makes us feel good,” said Charles Hanset, founder and executive director of Thrive 2 Survive. “It also reflects the need. We expected maybe 70 people. But 200 people showed up today, wanting services and getting them. That’s phenomenal. This is what we do for the community.”

Thrive 2 Survive holds even larger events quarterly at Living Hope Church in Vancouver. From time to time, Thrive 2 Survive holds pop-up events elsewhere in Clark County. This was the first one held in Battle Ground.

“We’re bringing unity in the community,” Hanset said.

He appreciated every agency’s help on Friday, especially the host of the event.

Sue Neal is the executive director of Battle Ground HealthCare.

“We are here for whole-person care,” she said. “We provide access to medical and dental services, but there is more to life.”

That is why the clinic jumped at the chance to offer more than just medical and dental. As the name of the organization she partnered with suggests, people not only want to survive, but they want to thrive. A haircut helps. Care for their animals is a big relief for pet owners. Mental health is a huge key to thriving. And, of course, proper nutrition and knowing when the next meal will be available. 

All those are helpful for those experiencing homelessness or simply in need of some temporary help.

Battle Ground HealthCare, Neal noted, is for all adults, uninsured, underinsured, or people who have fallen through the gaps in care. As an example, a person who has lost a job and no longer has insurance. Battle Ground HealthCare is there for them until they can get a new job with benefits.

“We serve all of Southwest Washington and beyond,” Neal said. “People come from all over. We don’t turn people away.”

This pop-up event just brought even more services for those in need, all in on location. 

Partnership is key, Neal said. Battle Ground HealthCare could not do this alone. Thrive 2 Survive could not do this alone. 

“It takes a community,” Neal said.