Dr. Elaine Joselyn. | File Photo
Dorri Partain
Managing Editor
High costs of healthcare for those without insurance coverage was the catalyst when Elaine Joslyn D.O. created Northeast Neighbor to Neighbor (NNN) in 2005 from her Neighborhood Family Care office at 4601 Independence Ave.
As a 501(c)3 nonprofit, Dr. Joslyn could request discounted fees from other physicians within her network, which would then be paid with donations to NNN. Procedures provided through this assistance program included visits with specialists, surgeries and out-of-pocket expenses such over the counter medications.
A graduate of Kansas City University of Medical and Biosciences (now Kansas City University), Dr. Joslyn opened Family Health Care as an osteopath in 1994 and saw first-hand the need for additional healthcare funding for Northeast residents.
“We can’t take care of the world,” Dr. Joslyn said in an interview, Thursday. “But we’re going to take care of our neighbors.”
Funding for NNN came from various sources, including those who had received funds during a time in need and were able to later pay it forward. Since 2008, this organization has received funding through donations generated by Kansas City Track Club’s annual Cliff Hanger run. This event — a 5k to 8k walk/run along Cliff Drive in Kessler Park — provided up to $9,000 to NNN coffers.
Following the passage of the Affordable Care Act (ObamaCare) in 2010, NNN had fewer requests for medical funding but still provided assistance with eye exams, corrective lenses and dentures — especially for students in the English as a Second Language programs at Della Lamb Community Services (500 Woodland Ave).
Joslyn also stated that through a partnership with Spalitto’s Pharmacy (3801 Independence Ave.), NNN was able to offer $10 vouchers for non-pharmaceutical items for those receiving assistance at the Don Bosco Community Center in Columbus Park.
Following her retirement from medical practice in 2017, Dr. Joslyn said she turned over her patients and office location to KC Care Health Center to continue to offer low-cost health care to the Northeast community.
After 20 years, and many years of no longer working one-on-one with patients, Dr. Joslyn and the NNN board members decided it was time to fold the organization and designate its remaining funds to another local organization.
NNN program director, Indian Mound resident David Remley, informed the Northeast News of this decision last month, stating they had selected Healing House KC to receive the remainder of funds in the NNN medical assistance account.
Healing House KC (4505 St. John Ave.) — a faith-based substance abuse program — was chosen to ensure this final $7,000 donation would carry on NNN’s mission of providing medical care to program recipients enrolled in this Northeast-based organization.
“We have enjoyed a wonderful partnership with Northeast Neighbor to Neighbor for many years,” stated Bobbi Jo Reed, Healing House KC founder and CEO. “While we are sad to see them come to a close, we are deeply grateful that their heart for the community lives on through their generous support of our Healing House family. Their gift is a true blessing to our ministry, and we are immensely thankful.”
Sarah Hattaway, Kansas City Track Club spokesperson, stated that Healing House KC would be considered as the recipient for donations generated during Cliff Hanger 2025.
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