Our History

The Florida Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (FAFCC) was established as a Florida not-for-profit corporation on August 19, 2013. The IRS granted FAFCC 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status in a letter dated November 27, 2013.

The idea for a state association to support Florida’s free and charitable clinics began in the mid-2000s. Inspired by national free clinic conferences and other state associations, Florida clinic leaders, under the guidance of Marisel Losa, worked to make it a reality. Marisel, then Executive Director of St. John Bosco Clinic in Miami and now CEO of the Health Council of South Florida, negotiated with the Health Council’s Board of Trustees to launch the “Florida Association of Free Clinics” as a program of the Health Council.

In 2013, discussions began about creating a separate, independent 501(c)(3) organization. By June 2013, the FAFC Executive Committee unanimously approved a transition plan to establish FAFCC as a standalone entity by year-end. A new Board of Directors was formed, representing clinic and network leaders statewide. FAFCC became a Florida not-for-profit corporation on August 19, 2013, and received its 501(c)(3) status on November 3, 2013. The Board held a strategic planning retreat in December, setting key priorities for the organization.

By early May 2014, FAFCC achieved a major goal by securing a $4.5 million state appropriation for the free and charitable clinic sector. In the fall of 2014, FAFCC awarded grants to 69 clinics and networks. By 2016, FAFCC successfully increased the state appropriation to $9.5 million. During the COVID-19 pandemic, FAFCC secured over $147,000 in grants to support telehealth programs and enhance diversity and inclusion efforts. As of 2022, FAFCC has grown to 113 members statewide, with membership continuing to expand each year thanks to supporters who believe in our vision and mission.