About Us  

More than 45 million Americans are estimated to be without health insurance.  While some qualify for medical assistance programs, many others simply "fall through the cracks" and do not receive care. 

It is a problem throughout the country, and the La Crosse area is no exception. 

Substantial numbers of people have significant problems accessing basic healthcare.  Their problems are compounded by rising medical and pharmaceutical costs, loss of employment and lack of monetary means.  Our community, unfortunately, is not immune to these problems. 

In 1992, representatives of health and social service organizations throughout our community began a collaborative effort to address health care access for the poor and uninsured.  Under the direction of Sister Leclare Beres, a unique and innovative program emerged from this effort - a program, supported by Franciscan Skemp and Gundersen Lutheran, in which multidisciplinary volunteers provide free basic health care to those who would otherwise receive none.  The St. Clare Health Mission volunteers continue, after nearly twelve years, to provide basic healthcare for the poor and uninsured in our community. 

St. Clare Health Mission is named for Clare of Assisi, a contemporary of St. Francis who renounced all of her possessions - even giving away her shoes - as she devoted her life to the care of the poor. 

The term "health mission" describes not only the program, but also the motivation which guides it. 

The Mission has cared for over 12,000 patients in over 50,000 visits since it's inception in 1993.  Individuals who qualify for care are not eligible for private, state or federal healthcare coverage programs, fall within 150% of federal poverty  guidelines, and reside in Houston La Crosse, Monroe, Trempleau or Vernon County.  The St. Clare Health Mission is not intended to duplicate existing programs.  All who have access to alternative services are encouraged to pursue those resources for their care. 

St. Clare Health Mission is open for walk in care on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 5:00p.m. until 8:00p.m. or the last patient is seen.  In 2002 the Wednesday continuity clinic was opened with the purpose of caring for those with chronic medical conditions.    This is a student run clinic staffed with family practice residents, Viterbo University nursing and dietary students along with their preceptors.

Funding for the Mission, including medical supplies such as pharmaceuticals, is paid for through community donations.  Pharmaceuticals alone cost roughly $250,000.00 per year.  Donations may be directed to St. Clare Health Mission, 916 Ferry St., La Crosse, WI  54601. 

The St. Clare Health Mission is an expression of the charitable mission of the individuals and organizations who desire to serve the less fortunate and to recognize the dignity of all.