IHS began in 2008 by meeting temporary “unmet” needs for the underfunded and indigent population who must come to Charlottesville, Virginia for their medical care. The range of travel is far-reaching from all parts of Virginia, West Virginia and surrounding states. This non-religious, no stock, 501(c)3, nonprofit, All-volunteer public charity is totally independent of the UVA Medical Center, one of two Virginia state supported discount hospitals. Through a close working relationship with the Hospital’s Office of Social Work, IHS is dedicated to patients and family members. When patients receive discounted or free care, but can’t afford to get here, stay overnight or have adequate food, social workers acknowledge that all other benefits don’t help, even when they can work with medical bills and most prescriptions. What began as temporary lodging, especially with children sleeping in cars with no access to UVA Hospitality House, expanded with making and providing full-day meal packets through social workers, buying food for Hospitality House, purchasing local bus tickets, prescription co-pays, and new infant car seats. All elements have added to a growing need to reach out to groups and individuals for contributions with our monthly updates through e-mails and blog entries.