A local organization of Moore County residents has developed an interesting approach to providing significant financial support to the Moore Free Care Clinic (MFCC).

"You can easily become an integral part of this most rewarding effort," says a spokesman.

Host a "Dining in the Pines" party for your friends, anytime between Oct. 17 and Oct. 31.

"It can be an intimate dinner party, a tailgate party for 80, cocktails and hors d'oeuvres for 20, a brunch, a picnic, a Halloween Party, etc" says Bobbie Erdman, who came up with this fundraising concept. "You make the decision about the type of party that you would like to host, develop a list of guests, and start the planning. Just provide the list of your invitees to the Dining in the Pines (DIP) Committee and they will take care of the fundraising portion of the event, including provision of invitations for your guests. Of course, your expenses are your donation to the effort."

Each guest is asked to make a $35 minimum donation to the Moore Free Care Clinic, but may contribute as much as they wish. Guests will also be able to bid on fabulous items in an online auction of art objects and trips that have been donated to the event.

The Moore Free Care Clinic provides high quality primary, preventive, and specialty medical care to limited income residents of Moore County who are uninsured and cannot afford access to health care.

In May, the clinic moved into a rent-free, spacious 3,000-square-foot facility in Southern Pines.

"The space was provided through the generosity of John and Mary O'Malley," says a spokesman.

"Interior construction of the clinic was accomplished through the cooperative efforts of many in the community."

General and specialty care, clinics in mental health, dental, orthopedics, neurology, ENT, physical therapy, cardiology, and ophthalmology are offered at the facility. This is made possible by volunteer physicians, nurses, and community members who generously give of their time and money to help those in need.

All donations from the Dining in the Pines effort go directly to the clinic. Last year's fundraising effort yielded $48,000 in contributions and this year's goal is $60,000.

To host a party or to find out more about "Dining in the Pines," call Kathy Lannon at 235-9232 or Ginger Lash at 215-0002.