FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 14, 2026
People's Health & Wellness Clinic Brings Back Bowlathon as Medicaid Cuts Threaten Health Coverage for Vermonters
Annual fundraiser returns November 7 as Barre's free clinic prepares for an expected increase in uninsured patients
BARRE, VT — With thousands of Vermonters potentially facing the loss of Medicaid coverage in the coming years, People's Health & Wellness Clinic is bringing back its popular Bowlathon fundraiser on Saturday, November 7, with plans to make it an annual tradition once again.
The event, held from 9 to 11 a.m. at Twin City Family Fun Center in Berlin, will bring together local businesses, community members, volunteers, and supporters for a morning of bowling, friendly competition, and fundraising to support free health care in Central Vermont.
But this year's event comes with a new sense of urgency.
Federal changes to Medicaid taking effect in 2026 and 2027 will introduce new eligibility restrictions, work requirements, and more frequent eligibility reviews. Vermont officials anticipate that these changes will reduce Medicaid enrollment and increase the number of uninsured residents.
For the People's Clinic, which has provided free health care to Central Vermonters for more than 30 years, that means preparing for more people who need help.
"We're a little free clinic in downtown Barre, but we're getting ready to respond to some very big changes in health care," said Executive Director Daniel Barlow. "We already care for hundreds of people who are uninsured or struggling to afford medical and dental services. As Vermonters begin losing Medicaid coverage, many of them are going to need somewhere to turn. We want to make sure our doors are open when they need us."
The clinic served more than 700 patients in 2025, providing free medical and dental care, preventive screenings, medication assistance, and help navigating an increasingly complicated health care system.
Unlike most health care providers, the People's Clinic does not charge patients or bill insurance companies, Medicaid, or Medicare. Its work is supported through grants, donations, community partnerships, and a dedicated team of volunteer medical professionals.
"About half of our patients currently have Medicaid coverage, but that doesn't mean they can always afford the care they need or find a provider who can see them," Barlow said. "Now imagine what happens when some of those patients lose their insurance altogether. The need for free clinics isn't going away. It's growing."
Bowling for a healthier Central Vermont
The Bowlathon, last held in 2023, is returning with the goal of raising $15,000 to support the clinic's services. Organizers hope to make it a signature annual fundraising event.
Teams of three or four bowlers are invited to participate, with each team committing to raise at least $300. The clinic covers bowling and shoe rentals, and participants will enjoy prizes, raffles, and a little friendly competition.
"One of the things that makes the People's Clinic so special is the way our community comes together to support it," said Dr. Karen Hinkle, a member of the clinic's Board of Directors and chair of its Fundraising Committee. "The Bowlathon is a chance to have some fun, reconnect with friends and neighbors, and make a real difference in people's lives. With the changes coming to Medicaid, the need for our services is only going to grow. Every dollar we raise helps ensure that someone in our community can get the care they need, regardless of their ability to pay."
The event has already attracted support from local businesses and organizations, including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont, Northfield Savings Bank, Community National Bank, The Alchemist, Washington Electric Co-op, Concept2, Spectrum, and the Auto Saver Group.
"There's something wonderfully Vermont about people getting together on a Saturday morning to bowl, have some fun, and make sure their neighbors can see a doctor or dentist," Barlow said. "We're incredibly grateful to the businesses and community members stepping up to support us. And we're hoping this is just the beginning of a tradition that grows every year."
Barlow emphasized that the clinic's mission remains unchanged, regardless of what happens in Washington or Montpelier.
"People don't stop getting sick because they lose their insurance. They still need medications, dental care, cancer screenings, and someone to help them manage chronic conditions," he said. "Our job is to be here for them. But we can't do it alone. That's why events like the Bowlathon matter so much."
About People's Health & Wellness Clinic
Founded in 1993, People's Health & Wellness Clinic is a nonprofit organization providing free medical, dental, and wellness services to uninsured and underinsured adults throughout Central Vermont. Located at 51 Church Street in Barre, the clinic relies on volunteer health care professionals, charitable contributions, grants, and community partnerships to ensure that cost is never a barrier to essential care. Free clinics save lives. www.phwcvt.org
Media Contact:
Daniel Barlow, Executive Director
People's Health & Wellness Clinic
daniel@phwcvt.org
(802) 355-7461