The Charitable Pharmacy of Central Ohio offers free prescription medications, dependable pharmacy services, and a supportive space for patients in need. By ensuring access to essential medications, it helps individuals work toward better health outcomes. Serving as a lifeline for residents facing financial hardships, the pharmacy provides critical support to those unable to afford the medications required to manage chronic conditions.
We took a moment to chat with Charitable Pharmacy of Central Ohio to share more about their work, recent achievements, and challenges. Here’s what they had to share about their mission, impact, and role within the community:
1. Every organization has its unique identity. What sets your organization or program apart from others working in a similar space?
The Charitable Pharmacy is unique in that we provide our patients with a 12-month continuity of care at the time of enrollment, and patients can reapply yearly as long as they continue to meet the eligibility criteria.
2. Reflecting on recent achievements, what has been your biggest success as an organization in the past year?
A major milestone for us was dispensing our one-millionth 30-day prescription supply since 2010. Additionally, we raised our household income eligibility criteria from 200% to 300% of the Federal Poverty Level, enabling us to help more neighbors who are struggling financially and cannot afford prescription medications.
3. Turning to challenges, what is the most pressing issue your community or clients are currently facing in the coming year?
Rising prices and the high cost of daily living are ongoing challenges for those we serve. Another significant issue is food insecurity, with many of our patients suffering from it. We work to alleviate this through partnerships with local food banks, focusing on providing free fresh fruits and vegetables through the Mid-Ohio Food Collective Farmacy partnership.
4. Community involvement is key. How can people who are inspired by your work get involved with your organization?
The cost of operating a nonprofit pharmacy is high, and financial support is crucial. In addition, people can help by donating unused, still-sealed, and unexpired prescription medications (excluding controlled substances) at our pharmacy during business hours.
5. Collaboration is often essential in creating impact. Who are some of your favorite partners or collaborators in the community, and how do you work together?
We are fortunate to have strong relationships with major healthcare systems in Franklin County, including The OSU Wexner Medical Center, OhioHealth, Mount Carmel Health, and Nationwide Children’s Hospital. We also work closely with the City of Columbus, Franklin County Commissioners, the Franklin County Office on Aging, and many local healthcare networks. Together, we share the common goal of improving the health and lives of medically underserved individuals in our community.
6. Becoming part of this network brings you to a new community and potential collaborations. Why did you decide to join Community Shares of Mid Ohio?
We wanted to increase awareness about the work we do, particularly in workplace environments. It’s not just about employee giving, but also about outreach. Someone in need of our services might be unaware of what we offer, but through the Community Shares’ network, we can spread our message to those who could benefit from our services.
7. The heart of Community Shares’ work is to create a more just, caring, and healthy community for all. How does your organization contribute to this vision?
Charitable Pharmacy of Central Ohio works to empower and educate individuals, improve health, and restore hope for Franklin County residents who cannot afford the medications needed to manage their chronic illnesses. Our vision aligns with Community Shares of Mid Ohio’s vision of a more just, caring, and healthy community for all.
8. Let’s end with something surprising. What’s an interesting fact or statistic about your organization that most people might not know?
Since opening our first location in 2010, the value of medications we’ve dispensed at no cost to patients has exceeded $94 million. We’ve served 8,270 Franklin County residents, with many returning for follow-up visits. On average, each patient takes eight different medications daily.
The Charitable Pharmacy of Central Ohio is making a profound impact in the lives of many by providing critical medications and healthcare resources to those who need them most. Learn more about their work and how you can get involved by visiting their website and supporting their mission.
