How it all started…
The Health Come True Foundation (HCTF) began as a student-led project at Yale University Medical School. Two students wanted to tackle global healthcare challenges, starting with children in the most underserved communities of the Dominican Republic. Since 2019, HCTF has hosted free pediatric and dental clinics for the children of Gualey, Pizarette.
Why we do this…
We focus our efforts in areas of concentrated poverty, where our resources can create the greatest impact. In the Dominican Republic, over one-third of the population lives on less than $1.25 a day, with more than 20 percent in extreme poverty.
Gualey-Pizarrete, in the southern region of the country, faces significant health disparities. The nearest hospital is 11 miles away, and with a large population of children and limited access to transportation, the need for healthcare in this community is critical.
How we are different..
100% volunteer-led
Our team is 100% volunteer-based with no salary or wages. We are proud to state that all fundraising dollars go directly to the communities in which we serve and for every $20 raised, we are able to treat 1 child. We keep our costs low by sourcing donations from both international and local businesses and organizations as well as funding from our corporate sponsors.
No Particiption Fees
We do not ask our volunteers to "donate funds" or pay hundreds of dollars in participation fees. Each volunteer is responsible for their own travel, lodging, and spending funds. That’s it!
Credits and Certificate
Participation in the HCTF clinic provides all medical students with up to 12 CRE credits and a certificate of completion.
Training and Research
Medical student volunteers will have hands-on experience with diverse pediatric patients while also partaking in research and training with other medical students from around the world. Throughout the year, we offer our volunteers free online training and continuing education from professors and medical professionals from universities such as Yale, Harvard, and Emory.
Independent Work
HCTF is not affiliated with any political, government, or religious groups as we work purely for the sake of humanity and altruism.
Our Mission & Vision
Mission
Our mission is to empower underserved children around the world with access to essential health care and health education, so they can become positive change-makers in their communities.
Vision
Our goal is to expand the Health Come True clinic model to reach underserved communities across the globe. By partnering with talented medical professionals from top-tier medical schools, we aim to bring quality healthcare and education to those who need it most, making a lasting impact on countless lives.
Values
Health Come True Foundation upholds Unity by bringing communities together, emphasizes Education to empower individuals, maintains Commitment to consistent care, demonstrates Compassion in all interactions, and ensures Transparency in our operations.
