The VNA of Central Jersey Community Health Centers (VNACJ-CHC) is offering primary healthcare and dental services to the women, men and others who make the Jersey Shore rock.
Christopher Rinn, CEO of the health centers, announced his organization’s commitment to the health and well being of artists and musicians during the Asbury Band Aid digital concert benefit for musicians of the Jersey Shore on April 20 at the Stone Pony is Asbury Park. The concert was sponsored by the Vin Gopal Civic Association and the Stone Pony, according to a press release.
“The Community Health Center stands with our artists and musicians. We are here to help you. If you are in need of primary care, dental, or other health services, but have trouble paying, are uninsured or under-insured please contact the Community Health Center,” Rinn said.
“Over here on E Street, we are proud to support the Community Health Center and their essential work for our Jersey Shore artists and musicians,” Bruce Springsteen was quoted as saying in the press release in declaring his support of the healthy artists and musicians initiative.
“The VNA Community Health Center is a wonderful organization that has helped many people, including friends and employees,” said Caroline O’Toole, general manager of the Stone Pony.
“We are proud to partner with them in promoting the health and well-being of musicians, artists and those who work in the industry,” she said.
“Access to healthcare is critical for the health and well-being of New Jerseyans,” said Gov. Phil Murphy. “This VNA Community Health Center initiative will help eliminate healthcare cost and access barriers for those who may be uninsured or under-insured in our arts community.
“I applaud VNA for this program and for keeping the Jersey Shore healthy, and rocking. I also encourage those who are uninsured or under-insured to go to Get Covered NJ to learn more about affordable coverage options,” the Governor said.
The VNACJ-CHC provides primary healthcare for individuals and families at its four centers in Monmouth County — Asbury Park, Freehold Borough, Keyport and Red Bank. They serve all individuals without discrimination and regardless of the patient’s ability to pay, according to the press release.
The CHC remained open throughout the coronavirus pandemic to ensure that the vulnerable population it serves had access to healthcare. In 2020, the agency completed 45,000 patient visits, in person and telehealth, for 14,000 Monmouth County residents, according to the press release.
Since late December through the third week of May, the CHC and its partners had administered more than 63,000 coronavirus vaccines.
“Summer is coming,” Rinn said, “and the Jersey Shore is going to rock this year. We all need our musicians healthy to heal us and to celebrate our coming out of the most difficult year most of us have ever experienced and hopefully ever will.”
Artists and musicians in need of affordable health or dental care may call 732-774-6333 for more information.
