Page 70 - Life_In_Naples_December_2018

WELLNESS WITHIN REACH

Nichols Community Health Center, A Golden (Gate) Opportunity

by Gabrielle O’Boyle,
Healthcare Network of Southwest Florida

aples is a tropical paradise
offering idyllic weather, azure
blue skies, and chic promenades
Nfilled with posh boutiques and
fine resturants that, for years, has attracted
affluent residents and travelers from around
the globe. However, for many who call
Naples home, life in Naples is not so perfect. costs to Collier County residents since its inception in 1977 by
Surprisingly, or not, many people providing access to quality primary medical, dental, women’s,
financially struggle to call Naples home. pediatric, integrated behavioral health and pharmaceutical care
These residents are the backbone of our community and are often our throughout 21 health centers in Naples.
service providers, teachers, emergency personnel, medical providers, In order to keep affordable, quality healthcare within reach
small business owners and hospitality workers. And, for many of for the growing Naples population, Healthcare Network is
these residents, access to currently raising funds to build a three-story, $18-million-
affordable healthcare is dollar medical complex, located in Golden Gate – a community
not within reach. identified as one of the most underserved in Collier County. The
Healthcare Network complex has been named Nichols Community Health Center
of Southwest Florida, after a lead gift from Naples resident Jerry Nichols.
a private not-for- “We are excited about expanding our footprint in the
profit organization, community,” said Mike Ellis, President and Chief Executive Officer
has been committed to for Healthcare Network of Southwest Florida. “Through the Nichols
reducing the financial Community Health Center, we will be able to provide Golden Gate
burden of healthcare residents, many of whom work in roles that keep our local economy

70 Life in Naples | December 2018