20 Years Serving Local Families
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – For 20 years, LifeSpring Community Health has worked to provide affordable healthcare for children and families who may otherwise struggle to access it.
Founded in 2006, the Chattanooga nonprofit began with just two people on its team. LifeSpring founders said teachers were noticing some children had not seen a doctor or received physicals, highlighting a growing need in the community.
In its first year, LifeSpring saw around 200 children visits. Today, LifeSpring leaders said the organization recorded more than 7,000 visits last year while continuing to focus on caring for uninsured and underinsured families.
LifeSpring provides pediatric care, integrated behavioral health services, developmental and behavioral assessments, family counseling, and substance abuse treatment, among other services.
The nonprofit works to address both physical and behavioral health needs while helping families navigate medical care and financial challenges.
Care is offered through a sliding-scale payment system designed to make healthcare more affordable. Founders said families are sometimes forced to make difficult decisions between paying for medical care and covering everyday necessities, and LifeSpring works with families who may struggle to afford treatment.
The nonprofit also emphasizes culturally appropriate care, with bilingual counselors and Spanish-speaking services helping better meet the needs of families in the community. Alongside medical care, LifeSpring incorporates emotional and spiritual support into its approach, including optional prayer and faith-based care.
Beyond services inside the clinic, LifeSpring partners with counselors in community centers and helps connect families with resources. LifeSpring leaders said newborns can often be seen within 48 hours, including some transitioning from NICU care.
Community partnerships have also played a major role in the organization’s growth. For more than five years, Silverdale Baptist Church has partnered with LifeSpring through volunteer efforts, meals, funding, and hands-on projects around the clinic. According to LifeSpring staff, proceeds from Oaks Coffee House have also helped support the nonprofit’s mission.
Partnerships with organizations including the United Way and local foundations have helped fund additional programs, as LifeSpring celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. Founders Michele Pickett and Jill Fikkert said the goal remains unchanged.
Their goal is to continue to care for families with the same compassion shown when the organization first began, even as the number of families served continues to grow.
