FRANKLIN COUNTY

Franklin County is on the Gulf of Mexico in Northwest Florida. It is home to a rural population that relies on tourism, agriculture and the seafood industry to employ its nearly 11,000 residents. Apalachicola, the county seat, is an historic seaport that features many restored Victorian homes. The main county health department clinic is located in Apalachicola.

Franklin County Health Department clients may be seen at the main clinic in Apalachicola or in the satellite clinic across the bay bridge in Carrabelle. These clinics serve patients from these coastal communities, as well as those from St. George Island, St. Theresa Beach and Alligator Point. A new health department headquarters is being planned for construction in Apalachicola that will serve the growing population of this county. Most volunteer activities have not been formal, but community based projects by citizens and the health department staff. Currently, a volunteer retired physician provides enhanced clinic services for women’s health. Other initiatives are under way to use the skills of retired health care providers. Dental, children’s health and social services are areas of potential volunteer services.

Persons interested in volunteering with the Franklin County Health Department may contact Janice Hicks at 137 12^th Street, Apalachicola, FL 32320. She may be reached by telephone at (850) 653-2111.