Open Arms reports strong enrollment, mobile clinics and plans to sustain ARPA-funded outreach

Open Arms, a county-supported nonprofit, reported July 16 that ARPA-funded mobile and community clinics have rapidly expanded access to primary care in Walworth County and that the organization is planning for sustainability beyond ARPA funding. County staff briefed the board on Open Arms’ ARPA contract, saying the initiative offers outreach and basic direct services — blood pressure checks, community “ask a doc” events and school physicals — delivered in community settings and via a mobile health hub. Executive Director Sarah Nichols (reported by staff) described the initiative as “transformative.” Open Arms reported more than 1,000 new patients in 2024 and about 500 new patients so far in 2025, and staff said the nonprofit introduced a “quick clinic” to handle increased demand. The group said to date it has received almost $500,000 in ARPA awards and expects a projected county allocation of roughly $134,000 in 2026. Open Arms is applying for University of Wisconsin partnership funding to sustain the model after ARPA funds end and told the county it is pursuing other funding and operational strategies. County staff characterized Open Arms’ community calendar and mobile-hub deployments as successful outreach that improves access for residents who might otherwise face barriers to care. The board received the report; no formal action was required.