1990-2000

On September 23, 1991, the Junior League of Greensboro opened the Greensboro Pharmacy on Battleground Avenue.This was made possible with an allocation of $100,000 and 14 volunteers. By providing pharmaceuticals to the medically indigent of Guilford County, the pharmacy met a real need in the community. In just the first month of operation, the pharmacy filled 350 prescriptions. Prescription drugs are provided through the gathering of samples from doctor’s offices (which often go unused) and wholesale drug purchases.

The League provided start-up funding and volunteer support to establish this program, receiving an award of merit from the Association of Junior Leagues International in 1993. The Pharmacy is now a part of HealthServe Ministry.

HealthServe Ministry was established in 1993 and was developed through a partnership between the Greensboro Urban Ministry and the Moses Cone Memorial Hospital. The Junior League donated $50,000 in 1993-1994 for primary child health care. A full range of comprehensive services focus on family centered and preventative care including pediatrics, limited maternity services, dental care, and pharmacy needs. HealthServe operates with a staff of over 25 physicians and nurse practitioners and over 300 volunteers who offer time and expertise to guarantee better quality health care throughout our community.

In 1997, the League allocated $75,000 (to be paid over a two-year period) to the Greensboro Children’s Museum for the establishment of a permanent Early Childhood Development Room. Along with an exhibit for children, the area included a parent/ caregiver library resource room and a parenting classroom.

The Junior League of Greensboro’s donated $10,000 and several volunteer placements in 1998 to support a shelter for homeless women in recovery and their children. The shelter, on Guilford Avenue, is known as Mary’s House.  Mary’s House is for homeless women who are committed to addiction recovery, caring for their children and self-sufficiency. It was the dream many years ago of a group from New Creation Community Presbyterian Church, including the Rev. Beth McKee-Huger, who coordinated the program’s formation. It became a reality with the help of hundreds of volunteers and contributions of local businesses, churches and other community groups, including the Junior League of Greensboro.

Mary’s House can hold as many as 24 women. The residents go through a year-long training program beginning with learning how to be good parents. They prepare for employment and look for stable jobs. Senior residents look for safe, affordable housing close to their jobs and away from the former temptations.