Groton Wellness, an innovative and integrative health center, has teamed up with the Groton Community Foundation to create the Free Wellness Project for those in need of complimentary medical treatments. One Saturday afternoon a month, several Groton practitioners voluntarily treat patients that may otherwise be unable to pay for these services.

 “It’s really helping a lot of people, because often times they’ve gone through the traditional medical routes and exhausted their resources without finding answers,” says Christine Habermann, director of marketing and events at Groton Wellness. “They come to us and we give them hope and care.”

The 30-minute consultations and 15-minute follow-up appointments may include tests, treatments and a supply of recommended supplements, all at no cost to the patient. Funding for the program comes from an annual spring fundraiser, the Ride for Free Wellness, and from individual and organizational donations. Earlier this year, the Groton Board of Trade raised more than $6,000 for the Free Wellness Project through an auction.

“The money we’re raising ensures that we can carry on the program,” says Habermann, noting that patients in the Free Wellness Project sign waivers to state that they are unable to pay for treatments. “It’s really important to us that we continue offering this because the community has been so good to us and we want to give back. And it’s open to those in the surrounding communities who need help, not just Groton residents.”

The program is open to both adults and children that come in for acupuncture, chiropractic and functional, naturopathic and herbal medicine. “We’re helping people with such chronic conditions as cancer, Lyme disease, endocrine disorders and illnesses for which people have not been able to find solutions or affordable care,” Habermann says. “Our founder Dr. Jean Nordin- Evans would also like to add dental consultations in the future.”

Groton Wellness includes a holistic dental practice, functional medical facility, therapeutic spa and an all-natural café. Habermann says that bringing quality health care to those in need reflects the company’s overall purpose and philosophy. “We are interested in health, healing and helping people to be happier no matter what their circumstances,” she says. “And so, while we are a for-profit company, we take very seriously our mission to help others.”

The next Free Wellness Project treatment day is Saturday, September 13, from noon to 4 p.m., and those interested can visit the events page at GrotonWellness.com to register.

Location: Groton Wellness, Mill Run Plaza, 493 Main St. (Rte. 119), Groton. For more information, call 978-449- 9919 or visit GrotonWellness.com.