Aiken Celebrates the Opening of New Women and Children’s Health Center

Aiken Welcomes New Women and Children’s Health Center

Aiken, South Carolina, is celebrating the opening of a new facility dedicated to the health of women and children. On August 6, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) donated $5,000 to help complete the Emanuel-McClain Women and Children’s Health Center, marking a significant moment for the community.

A Milestone Ceremony

The donation was presented during a ribbon-cutting ceremony, which was attended by key figures involved in the project. SRNS Executive Vice President Sean Alford handed over the check to Carolyn Emanuel-McClain, the Chief Executive Officer of Rural Health Services, Inc. (RHS) and the center’s namesake. Joining them were RHS Board Chair Liz Stewart and other board members, creating a strong show of support for the new facility.

Measuring 19,645 square feet, the new health center will provide much-needed services for women, infants, and children in the area. Some of the services include prenatal care, pediatric care, family planning, and mammography, along with delivery and various support services.

Addressing Community Needs

In her remarks, Emanuel-McClain emphasized the importance of the sponsorship from SRNS. “This helps to enhance healthcare for our most vulnerable populations in the Aiken community and will be used to purchase additional pediatric equipment for this facility,” she said. The project has seen a considerable amount of support, including over $8 million in federal funding for construction, infrastructure, and furnishings.

With a growing demand for affordable healthcare services in Aiken and nearby areas, the new center aims to fill this gap, creating a nurturing environment where families can thrive. Emanuel-McClain added, “This center will be able to meet this need and creates a nurturing environment for families, mothers, and children to thrive.”

SRNS’s Commitment to Community

SRNS President and CEO Dennis Carr shared that the company, alongside its parent companies, contributes around $1 million each year to support local initiatives. Carr expressed excitement about supporting an organization that provides vital care to underserved populations. “We are thrilled to contribute to an organization that is committed to providing top-quality care,” he mentioned.

For over 50 years, RHS has been working to offer a wide range of primary and preventative healthcare services. The new Women and Children’s Health Center will also feature lactation consultations for breastfeeding mothers and a diaper bank that offers essential items like diapers, wipes, formula, children’s clothing, and feminine hygiene products to those in need.

The Role of Sponsorships

Alford shared the significance of sponsorships in improving community health outcomes. “Sponsorships from companies like SRNS play a significant role in improving the lives and outcomes of women and children who will be served by this facility,” he said. He highlighted that the opening of the center symbolizes a critical step toward addressing healthcare disparities, ensuring a brighter future for vulnerable demographics.

Residents of Aiken can look forward to the valuable services the Emanuel-McClain Women and Children’s Health Center will offer. This initiative not only enhances healthcare access but also strengthens community ties and support systems for families. As the center embarks on this journey, it stands as a beacon of hope for many in the Aiken community seeking quality healthcare services.