So when she needed treatment for a pre-existing medical condition she turned to the clinic.

“I didn’t feel like they were going to treat me,” she said.

But she was welcomed at the health care center, and she recently became the 1,000th person to be treated there since it opened in November.

Bishop David Zubik greeted her when she arrived for an appointment March 18.

Scott-Ford said the clinic means everything to people in her position.

“It was the most exceptional thing that they could’ve done,” she said of Catholic Charities opening the center.

Bishop Zubik noted the irony that there are people who live in one of the richest countries in the world who cannot afford health care.

He pointed out that the Catholic Charities clinic is a good venture for the church, public officials and the community.

The bishop said one aspect of being pro-life is to treat people with dignity.

“It’s obvious that they are treated with dignity here,” he said.

Scott-Ford was treated by Dr. Thomas Antos, an internist.

Antos said the clinic could be a model for other metropolitan areas around the country.

He noted the quality of care and said it is a good way for professionals to give back to the community.

“People who have been given a lot (of talent and education) have a responsibility to give back,” he said.

The number of patients at the clinic has increased much quicker than was anticipated. The dental service has been expanded and opthamology care has been added.

Bishop Zubik recalled the excitement that surrounded the opening of the clinic, and he spoke of the critical need for the services it offers.

The bishop said the care reflects the spirit of compassion in the area.

“From the first moment you come here it’s evident,” he said.

The clinic is located at Catholic Charities’ headquarters at 212 Ninth St. Call the center at 412-456-6911. More information is available at: www.ccpgh.org/Website/healthCenter_2.htm.