Via Christi has invested $100,000 in Guadalupe Clinic's $1.76 million “Campaign Care,” marking the latest chapter in the organizations' decades-long partnership dedicated to quality, compassionate health care for Wichita’s uninsured and underserved residents.
The significant gift supports Guadalupe Clinic’s effort to expand patient capacity, add basic dental services and ensure quality health care for people in our community, regardless of their financial situation.
For these patients, routine illnesses or manageable chronic issues can escalate when left untreated, often leading them to seek acute or critical care in the emergency department. Guadalupe Clinic’s "Campaign Care" aims to better manage these conditions in a primary care setting, helping reduce avoidable emergency room visits and creating a more sustainable health care system for all.
The relationship between the two organizations dates back to 1985, when five nurses from St. Francis hospital (now part of Via Christi) sought a grant from St. Francis’ founders the Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother to establish low-cost wellness services for people with little or no insurance.
“Via Christi has been a steadfast partner since our founding, and this generous gift is a powerful affirmation of our shared mission to care for our most vulnerable neighbors,” said Dave Sanford, Chairman of Guadalupe Clinic’s Board of Directors. “This $100,000 investment moves us significantly closer to adding six new patient rooms and essential dental services, ensuring we can continue to meet the growing patient demand with the dignity and compassion they deserve.”
The investment aligns with Via Christi’s strategic priorities to expand access to primary care, reduce avoidable emergency room visits and strengthen community health partnerships.
“This investment represents what Via Christi is all about — extending healing beyond hospital walls and into the community,” said Kevin Strecker, CEO of Via Christi. “When we support organizations like Guadalupe Clinic, we’re helping prevent illness before it becomes an emergency and creating a stronger, healthier Wichita for everyone. Our two organizations share a fundamental mission to care for those in need, and this gift demonstrates that enduring commitment.”
To date, more than $1.3 million has been secured for “Campaign Care” through the generosity of donors and community partners.
