Clearwater Free Clinic Opens Wellness Center

Clearwater Free Clinic opened its 8,500-square-foot Ruth and J.O. Stone Wellness Center on October 8 next to the nonprofit's main facility on Court Street.

The center expands services for low-income, uninsured residents of upper Pinellas County. Staff began using the space in late July and now offer chronic disease education, wellness workshops, group programs, and a demonstration kitchen for healthy meal preparation classes paired with the clinic's food pantry.

The clinic doubled its behavioral health counseling service and increased physical therapy frequency. New offerings include occupational therapy, yoga, stretching, and arts and music therapy.

"This represents an expansion of our wellness commitment to the communities we serve," CEO Anthony Degina said.

Founded in 1977, Clearwater Free Clinic provides medical care, medications, lab work, x-rays, and specialty referrals at no cost. In fiscal year 2026, the clinic served 1,113 unique patients—an 18 percent increase from the previous year—and enrolled 428 new patients. Over 160 volunteers, including approximately 60 physicians, support the clinic.

The clinic's $7 million Keep Them Well Comprehensive Campaign funded acquisition, renovation, and outfitting of the former commercial office building. Construction began in July 2025 and included installation of a new elevator for patient accessibility.