The Food Bank That Opened a Doctor's Office (800 Visits Later): Brad Herremans

What if the doctor's office you've been putting off is now inside your local food bank? In this episode of Stick a Fork in It, we sit down with Brad Herremans, CEO of Suncoast Community Health Centers, to talk about the clinic that's quietly changing healthcare in Tampa Bay. Since opening its doors at Feeding Tampa Bay this February, the on-site clinic has served more than 450 patients through 800+ visits — providing primary care, women's health, and soon, pediatric services on a sliding fee scale. A basic visit starts at just $40. Brad shares why "affordable healthcare can actually mean a lot," how Suncoast helps families navigate Medicaid, Medicare, and insurance plans without fear, and the long-term vision to build a full-service community health center right here at Feeding Tampa Bay. Plus: Brad's remarkable 22-year career as a U.S. Air Force Medical Service Corps officer, retiring as a Colonel — and why he believes the family serves alongside every service member. This isn't a free clinic. It's something better — healthcare built around you. In this episode: How the Suncoast–Feeding Tampa Bay partnership came together What a $40 visit actually covers, and how the sliding fee scale works The full range of services — medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy, and labs Brad's journey from Air Force Colonel to community healthcare CEO Learn more & get involved: 🌐 feedingtampabay.org 🏥 suncoast-chc.org Stick a Fork in It is the podcast from Feeding Tampa Bay — exploring the stories, people, and ideas behind our mission to end hunger in West Central Florida. This channel is designed to highlight the incredible people, programs, and partnerships helping solve hunger. Feeding Tampa Bay works across West Central Florida to provide food, resources, and pathways to stability for families and neighbors facing food insecurity. Through community leadership, volunteers, nonprofit partners, and innovative programs, Feeding Tampa Bay is working to create long-term solutions to hunger, poverty, and economic hardship. This channel shares the stories behind the work — from Tampa Bay changemakers and community leaders to volunteers and families whose lives are impacted every day. If you're looking for ways to help fight hunger in Tampa Bay, volunteer, donate, or get involved, you're in the right place. On this channel you’ll discover: • Inspiring Tampa Bay community leaders and changemakers • Behind-the-scenes looks at the Feeding Tampa Bay facility • Coverage of great Tampa Bay events and volunteer opportunities • Stories of neighbors helping neighbors • Programs designed to create long-term food security Feeding Tampa Bay serves 10 counties across West Central Florida, helping nearly 1 million neighbors annually through food distribution, partnerships, and innovative programs that address the root causes of hunger. Feeding Tampa Bay Programs Learn more about the programs featured on this channel: Feeding Tampa Bay Website: ftb.org/ Volunteer Opportunities: ftb.org/volunteer/ Fresh Force Workforce Development Program: ftb.org/freshforce How to Donate: ftb.org/donate Frequently Asked Questions How can I volunteer with Feeding Tampa Bay? Visit the volunteer page above to find opportunities throughout the Tampa Bay region. Where does Feeding Tampa Bay operate? Feeding Tampa Bay serves 10 counties across West Central Florida including Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Polk, Sarasota, and surrounding communities. How can I help fight hunger locally? You can volunteer, donate, attend community events, or partner with Feeding Tampa Bay to help expand access to food and resources. Subscribe for More Tampa Bay Stories This channel highlights the people, programs, and partnerships changing lives across Tampa Bay. Subscribe to meet inspiring guests, learn about community initiatives, and discover how you can help create a hunger-free future. #FeedingTampaBay #TampaBayCommunity #EndHunger #TampaBayVolunteers #FoodInsecuritySolutions