The air will be full of bids and buys Thursday at an auction to benefit Lackey Free Clinic.
This is the first standalone auction for the clinic, which has provided medical and dental care to those in need since 1995. Art, antiques and collectibles will all be up for grabs, as well as special pieces like a scrimshaw or artichoke-shaped box.
Gerry Hartigan, director of development, said the event provides the opportunity to get the word out about the organization to community members.
“They don’t realize that a lot of their neighbors are suffering from lack affordable healthcare, and we provide health and dental care for those in need,” Hartigan said. “And that includes the working poor. … I think that’s the biggest thing to communicate to people: Your next door neighbor could be coming to our clinic without you even realizing it.”
There is no charge for admission to the event — and there will be free wine, beverages and finger food — but the auction will also serve as a fundraiser for the clinic.
Clinic supporters and church communities have donated an array of antiques and collectibles, and local artists and jewelers have also contributed their original work to the project.
There are more than 100 items up for auction, which include a Lionel O gauge train set and track, two Pin Cartridge WWII revolvers, antique books dating back to the 1830s and 1840s, vintage records and more.
The artwork includes oil paintings by Robert Gruppe that Hartigan said are valued at about $400. See the list of all of the items up for auction, with large pictures, here.
Most sales will benefit Lackey’s general fund, but a few items will be auctioned off for specific needs like diabetic supplies. The clinic was recently awarded a national grant from CVS to support its diabetes management and education program.
The auction starts at 7 p.m. Thursday at Legacy Hall in New Town.
For those who cannot attend the auction but would like to leave a bid, contact Hartigan at [email protected] or 886-0608 ext 251. For more information about Lackey Free Clinic, visit their website.
