A Chatham County non-profit program says low income residents can rest assure that they will get all the medication they need to stay healthy.

Rachel Holt is on Social Security. Her sick husband's Medicaid ran out and she was stuck footing the bill for more than $600 a month for medication until she discovered the Chatham Cares Community Pharmacy.

"It's a good plan if you can't afford your meds and we cannot afford our medicine," Holt said.

The non-profit program accepts donations of used or excess medical supplies like walkers from citizens in the community and discounted medication from pharmacies. The director of the program, Jack Brooks, says they then supply free prescriptions to those Chatham County residents who qualify.

"A lot of people are choosing between their meds and putting food on the table. Most people choose the food," Brooks said.

To qualify, Brooks said residents must have no insurance, be ineligible for Medicaid or their income must be twice the poverty level or lower. For example, a single person making a max of $1700 a month could get involved with the program. A couple could make up to $2200 to qualify and a family of four must make about $3400 or less a month to use the pharmacy.

"If you can't afford it, don't go without. They'll do what they can to help you get it," Holt said.

But Brooks said they do not accept left over medicine from individuals in prescription bottles. They order the pills in individually wrapped packages.

Another customer Glenn Ola McClenon said people must swallow their pride and get help before it's too late.

"Don't be ashamed because you need help with meds and they cost a whole lot of money especially if you have to take three a day or more," Mclenon said.

In the past year and a half that they've been open, Brooks said they've seen more than 500 people and the number continues to grow.

The non-profit group runs on grants and donations. They will be holding a Christmas Tour of Homes in Siler City to raise money for the pharmacy.

To learn more call 919-663-0177.