Archive for category: Announcements

Pharmacy of Grace Opens Second Location in Shawnee, Bringing Affordable Medication Access to Johnson County

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Nonprofit charitable pharmacy in Shawnee ribbon cutting scheduled for July 15th with the Shawnee Chamber of Commerce

SHAWNEE, KS, June 2026 — Pharmacy of Grace has filled more than 71,000 prescriptions for uninsured and underinsured patients from its KCK location, and is now expanding medication access in Johnson County. 

While Johnson County is often perceived as an affluent community, there are significant pockets of poverty, including the area where the new pharmacy is located, where a majority of residents live below the Federal Poverty Level.

“This moment is thrilling to us and important for the community we serve,” said Michael Fink, PharmD, President and CEO of Pharmacy of Grace. “We know that access to affordable medication can impact patients’ lives in powerful ways.” 

Pharmacy of Grace will have a soft opening in late June. The Shawnee Chamber of Commerce is coordinating an official ribbon-cutting. 

Ribbon Cutting:
July 15th | 4:00 p.m.
11644 W 75th St, Shawnee, KS 66214

A Hidden Need in Plain Sight

While Johnson County’s overall wealth profile often obscures its healthcare gaps, the data tells a different story in the neighborhoods immediately surrounding the new pharmacy. Within walking distance of the facility, more than 2,100 residents are completely uninsured. The site sits one block from Shawanoe Elementary, a Title I school where 86% of students qualify for free or reduced lunch. 

The Shawnee location grew directly out of Pharmacy of Grace’s existing relationship with the community. For three years, staff has been delivering medications to patients at the Mercy and Truth clinic in Shawnee. As the demand grew, it was clear that a delivery model wasn’t enough.

“People don’t always see the financial hardship in Johnson County, but it is very real,” said John Yost, PharmD, Co-Founder of Pharmacy of Grace. “These are working parents without health benefits. Children and seniors managing chronic conditions. Our goal has always been to bring compassionate, affordable care closer to where they live, and this new pharmacy does exactly that.”

 

Full-Service Care, No Barriers

The Shawnee pharmacy will offer the same services that have made the Wyandotte County location a trusted healthcare resource: medications for uninsured and underinsured patients at low prices patients can afford, pharmacist counseling offered to every patient at every visit, on-site interpretation and translation services, and support navigating broader social and financial resources. 

As a stand-alone charitable pharmacy, POG is open to everyone, regardless of what doctor or hospital they use. Brandon Powers is the Pharmacist-in-Charge of the new Shawnee location and knows the area well. 

“I have had the opportunity to work in pharmacies near our new Shawnee location for more than 20 years. Many patients in the area have a need for not only greater access to affordable medications, but also the opportunity to have conversations with their pharmacist regarding their medication therapies,” Powers said. “I am excited to build relationships with all my patients at Pharmacy of Grace–Shawnee.” 

The expansion was made possible through a variety of generous donors and grants. The community is invited to celebrate the official ribbon cutting on July 15th at 4:00 PM at the new Shawnee location. For more information on services, hours, or how to support the mission, visit pharmacyofgrace.org.

 

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About Pharmacy of Grace: Mission and Purpose

Pharmacy of Grace is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable pharmacy serving uninsured and underinsured individuals in the Kansas City area. 

The Mission of Pharmacy of Grace is to improve access to prescription medication for uninsured and underinsured individuals and to increase the number of prescription medications available to vulnerable populations in Kansas.

The Purpose of Pharmacy of Grace, Inc. is to break the cycle of homelessness, poverty, school absentee days, and unemployment caused by unmanaged medical conditions. Many chronic medical conditions (such as hypertension, diabetes, congestive heart failure, asthma, COPD, bi-polar, and migraines) often go unmanaged, which eventually can cause people to seek costly medical care and possible emergency hospitalization.

 

Pharmacy of Grace Selected as a United Way 2026 Impact 100 Partner

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May 18, 2026 — Pharmacy of Grace is proud to announce that we have once again been selected as a United Way of Greater Kansas City Impact 100 partner for 2026.

The Impact 100 program identifies and invests in health and human services organizations that make a meaningful difference across the Kansas City region. This year’s class includes 32 organizations across United Way’s four pillars: health, youth opportunity, financial security, and community resiliency. Pharmacy of Grace is recognUnited Way Impact 100ized under the Healthcare Pillar for our work improving access to prescription medications for uninsured and underinsured individuals in the Kansas City area.

The funding that comes with this recognition is unrestricted. What this means is that it goes directly where it is needed most. As we prepare to open our second full-service location in Shawnee, Kansas, this support could not come at a better time. Unrestricted dollars give us the flexibility to respond to growing patient demand, support our expanding team, and continue delivering the high-tech and high-touch, pharmacist-driven care that sets us apart.

Pharmacy of Grace filled more than 27,000 prescriptions in 2025 alone, and served 2,079 unique patients. We also have an incredible 94% prescription pickup rate, thanks to our affordable pricing that ensures patients have access to the medications they need.

None of this happens without community support, and United Way’s continued investment in our mission is a vote of confidence we don’t take lightly.

Thank you to United Way of Greater Kansas City for this recognition. We are honored to stand alongside the extraordinary organizations in this year’s Impact 100 class and we are grateful to every donor, partner, and supporter who makes this work possible.

Annual Report: 2025

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April 27, 2026 (Kansas City, KS) — Pharmacy of Grace is proud to share our 2025 Annual Report, a snapshot of another year of growth, community impact, and an exciting new chapter on the horizon.

In 2025, we served 2,079 unique patients (an almost 8% increase over the prior year) and recorded 21,490 patient encounters. Behind every one of those numbers is a neighbor who received not just a prescription, but a conversation, a consultation, and the kind of care that keeps people out of the emergency room and managing their health with confidence.

We achieved a 94% prescription pickup rate, far exceeding national averages, which is a direct result of our team’s commitment to removing barriers of cost, language, and confusion. Generous donations fueled both a growth in our immunization program and also an exciting new Blood Pressure Cuff Campaign that exceeded expectations, enabling us to distribute 94 cuffs to patients managing hypertension.

As we look ahead, we are thrilled to be opening a second full-service pharmacy in Shawnee, Kansas, transitioning from a delivery-only model to a permanent pharmacy home for Johnson County residents who need us most. This expansion is made possible by the generosity of our donors and supporters, including the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund who once again offered a matching gift challenge grant.

Every number in this report represents a person whose life has been changed through access to life-saving medications and care. We are deeply grateful for the support of our staff, board, donors, and community partners who make this work possible.

Thank you for being part of our mission. Together we’re #MakingMedsMoreAccessible.

Read the full 2025 Annual Report here: Phamacy of Grace 2025 Report

Annual Report Cover Page 26

Annual Report Cover Page 2026

 

Managing Diabetes with Compassion

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Kansas City, KS — November is Diabetes Awareness Month, a time to recognize the challenges people face managing this chronic condition. At Pharmacy of Grace, we see firsthand how access to affordable medications and compassionate care transforms lives.

Shelly knows this reality well. After losing her husband and struggling with homelessness, she was introduced to Pharmacy of Grace by a friend. “I started coming here and found out they were way cheaper than anywhere else I had gone. And the staff is so friendly and helpful,” she said.

Before discovering Pharmacy of Grace, Shelly often went without her essential medications for diabetes, high blood pressure, and neuropathy because she simply couldn’t afford them. “I went without my diabetic medicine for a couple weeks, and my blood sugar skyrocketed. I got severely dehydrated and almost ended up in the hospital,” she shared.

Since starting with Pharmacy of Grace, Shelly has been able to take all of her medications consistently. 

“I can afford my meds now. I don’t have to worry month to month how I’m going to get my medication. I feel healthier, I sleep better, and my diabetes and blood pressure are under control.”

Pharmacy of Grace goes beyond dispensing medications. Our team provides one-on-one consultations to ensure patients understand their prescriptions and manage side effects. For patients with diabetes, these services are critical: consistent access to medications and guidance on monitoring blood sugar can prevent hospitalizations and improve long-term health outcomes.

Shelly’s story highlights why Pharmacy of Grace exists: to remove barriers to care, keep medications affordable, and support patients in managing chronic conditions like diabetes with dignity and hope. You can watch her share her story here: 

 

Preventing Diabetes

  • Maintain a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular exercise.
  • Choose whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins over processed foods.
  • Limit sugary drinks and high-calorie snacks.
  • Stay active daily – even 30 minutes of walking can make a difference.
  • Schedule regular check-ups to monitor blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol.
  • Know your family history and risk factors, and discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Tips for Managing Diabetes

  • Take your medications exactly as prescribed and never skip doses.
  • Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly to stay within your target range.
  • Eat consistent, balanced meals to avoid blood sugar spikes.
  • Stay hydrated and limit alcohol consumption.
  • Keep a log of your readings and symptoms to share with your healthcare team.
  • Attend regular appointments with your doctor, pharmacist, or diabetes educator.
  • Advocate for support – our Grace Meds program can help make medications affordable and accessible regardless of your insurance status. 

 

Giving That Gives Back: A Living Legacy

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Kansas City, KS – At Pharmacy of Grace, we are deeply moved when donors not only believe in our mission but choose to see their impact firsthand. Sally and Gene recently came on a tour at Pharmacy of Grace so they could do just that. Rather than waiting until they pass to distribute charitable donations, they are taking the “living legacy” approach: donating to causes close to their hearts while they can see the results and hear the stories of those they have helped.

Sally and Gene on their POG tour

Sally and Gene

Pharmacy of Grace is honored to be their first “living legacy” donation. Their connection to us runs deep: Gene attended seminary in the very building we now call home, and Sally, a retired RN with a background in behavioral health, understands the devastating effects of going without medication. On a recent tour, she shared that the patient stories we presented gave her chills. “People should never have to choose between food and medicine,” she said.

One of the stories we told them was about Sandra, who came to Pharmacy of Grace during a difficult season of her life. After being laid off from her job, Sandra found herself in a coverage gap: too young for Medicare, but unable to afford her essential maintenance medications. At a traditional pharmacy, one prescription alone would have cost her $50. Here, she was able to get what she needed for a fraction of the cost. Now that she has Medicare, she still fills her prescriptions with us because she knows her choice helps pay it forward and keeps care affordable for others.

The couple’s generosity and Sandra’s gratitude are two sides of the same coin, both rooted in a spirit of giving that ensures no one in our community has to go without the medication they need. For Sally and Gene, living legacy giving means they can be a part of those stories now, not just in memory, and they can witness how their generosity is changing lives.

If you’ve ever thought about the kind of difference you’d like to make as a part of your legacy, consider following their example. Come in for a tour and see how your support makes a difference. There is something profoundly rewarding about knowing your gift is already at work, bringing health, hope, and dignity to your neighbors.

Contact us today to plan a living legacy or other gift.

Watch Sandra’s story here to see how your gifts make an impact on peoples’ lives:

Why Medication Review Day Matters 

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On October 21st, the nation recognizes National Check Your Meds Day, a reminder about the importance of medication reviews. We want to share a story that shows why taking the time to talk to your pharmacist or physician can be life-changing. 

Our patient, a 69-year-old woman, came to Pharmacy Grace deeply distressed. She was virtually bed-bound, suffering from severe, persistent body aches that left her exhausted and unable to maintain her normal life. 

While filling her routine prescriptions, one of our staff members, Dr. Andi Neuhofel, took the time to listen to her complaints and review her medication list. Andi suspected her long-term statin medication was causing a rare but debilitating side effect. 

“Sometimes it just takes slowing down and really listening,” said Dr. Neuhofel. “Even long-term prescriptions can sometimes cause unexpected side effects.”

We immediately consulted her physician, who agreed to discontinue the statin for a trial period. The results were dramatic: within one month, the patient reported feeling the best she had felt in an extremely long time, now fully able to get out of bed and resume her daily activities. 

“Once we stopped the statin, she said she felt the best she had in years,” said Neuhofel. “Moments like that remind me why these medication reviews matter.”

On October 21st, we encourage everyone to mark National Check Your Meds Day by reaching out to your care team to review your medications. Don’t assume that new ache, fatigue, or symptom is just “getting older.” It could be a side effect. 

If you or a loved one ever has new symptoms, remember this story and talk to your pharmacist or doctor about your current medications. Their clinical insight can be the key to unlocking a better quality of life. 

A Royal Honor for POG Founders!

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Pharmacy of Grace Founders Honored with Royals’ Buck O’Neil Legacy Seat

Kansas City, MO — It’s the only red seat in all of Kauffman Stadium and it bears the name of a Kansas City Legend. The Buck O’Neil Legacy Seat is reserved for someone in our community who is making a difference in our community. 

On Saturday June 28th, 2025, in front of thousands of Kansas City Royals fans at Kauffman Stadium, Pharmacy of Grace founders John and Sara Yost were honored to receive that wonderful recognition.

Those who are given the high honor of occupying the red seat exemplify the compassion, service, and community spirit of baseball legend Buck O’Neil. While Buck was a trailblazer in the world of sports, it was his commitment to people (especially the underserved) that left the most lasting legacy. 

For John and Sara, the moment was deeply meaningful. As founders of our nonprofit pharmacy serving uninsured and underinsured families in Wyandotte County, their mission has always been about dignity, access, and grace. Saturday’s ceremony offered the city a glimpse into that work.

“To be honored in Buck O’Neil’s name is incredibly humbling,” said John Yost. “Buck O’Neil gave the commencement speech at my MBA graduation.  Since that day, Buck O’Neil and his story has been special to me.” 

“Recognition wasn’t the goal when we started Pharmacy of Grace, but knowing that thousands of people have heard our story is amazing!” Yost added that “our story being told to this amazing community gives me hope that Pharmacy of Grace will continue to grow and be able to provide lifesaving medication to the patients we serve.”

“It was both emotional and exciting,” added Sara Yost. “From the very beginning, we believed everyone deserves access to life-saving medications and compassionate care. This recognition brings awareness to Pharmacy of Grace.  Acknowledgement needs to go to our pharmacy team and board who work hard every day and continue to grow the vision, helping others live a healthy life.”

Royals Event CollagePharmacy of Grace began as an idea—one that started on a mission trip and then evolved over coffee meetings with fellow Resurrection Church members. Board member Liz Sutherlin has been with the organization from its earliest days and sat next to them at the game.

“I remember the first time I met with John, when Pharmacy of Grace was just a dream,” said Sutherlin. “We knew the need was great, but it was hard to imagine all the hurdles we would have to overcome. John and Sara never gave up. Sitting in the Buck O’Neal Legacy seat was the perfect form of recognition to honor their efforts. It’s proof of what can happen when you lead with heart.”

The recognition also resonated deeply with the Pharmacy of Grace team members who also attended the game.

“Watching John and Sara’s story on the big screen, in front of that many people, it was powerful. It made me think about how much progress they’ve made with their vision.” said Michael Fink, Vice President of Clinical Operations and Pharmacist-in-Charge.

Pharmacist Brandon Powers echoed that pride: “To see our patients and our purpose recognized in this way—it’s not something you forget. It’s a reminder that our daily work truly matters.”

At Pharmacy of Grace, our team doesn’t do this work for recognition. Their acts of grace often go unseen, except in the tearful thank-yous and grateful hugs from patients who can finally afford the medications they need. That’s what fuels us. But to have that quiet, everyday compassion honored on the big screen at The K was an unforgettable moment, and a powerful reminder of the impact this mission has on our community.

You can see more pictures from the event here on our Facebook page. You can also watch the video that played at Kauffman Stadium here:

Learn more about the Buck O’Neil Legacy Seat honor: https://www.mlb.com/royals/community/buck-oneil-seat

 

Caring for Women’s Health: A Partnership with the SkillBuilders Fund

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At Pharmacy of Grace, we are honored to be among this year’s SkillBuilders Fund grant recipients. This generous gift, awarded on behalf of the SkillBuilders Fund Board of Directors, will directly support our efforts to provide life-saving medications to women and girls in Wyandotte County living below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).

About the SkillBuilders Fund

The SkillBuilders Fund is a private foundation committed to helping women and girls in the Kansas City region realize their full potential. With a focus on education, entrepreneurship, and leadership, the fund supports programs that promote self-sufficiency and long-term success. By removing barriers and creating new opportunities, they are helping organizations like ours build stronger, healthier communities.

You can view this year’s full list of grant recipients here.

A Growing Need

The need for affordable healthcare access for women continues to grow. In 2024, 63% of Pharmacy of Grace patients were women, a 3% increase from the previous year. Even more notably, the number of prescriptions filled for female patients more than doubled, signaling a rising demand for affordable medication.

We also saw a 5% increase in the number of low-income women accessing our services. These numbers represent more than just statistics. They reflect real people—women who are choosing their health and well-being, often for the first time in a long while.

Pharmacist Kari Duede has seen first hand the joy on a patient’s face when they realize they can finally afford their medication and prioritize their health. “As a working mom, I know how important it is to have support. At Pharmacy of Grace, we are making medications more accessible and affordable, to help women care for themselves, and their families,” Duede said.  “When access to medicine isn’t a barrier, women can live fuller, healthier lives, which in turn benefits the community as a whole.”

A Patient Story: Dawn Michelle

Dawn Michelle’s story highlights what accessible, compassionate care can do. After becoming unemployed due to a medical condition, she found herself in a difficult gap without health coverage. Finding Pharmacy of Grace offered her some much-needed relief. Our knowledgeable and friendly team helped her manage her medication costs during an incredibly challenging time.

Even after qualifying for disability assistance, Dawn still turns to us for help. When her benefits don’t fully cover her complex medication regimen, our staff works to find affordable options. For patients like Dawn, this support is more than helpful—it’s life-changing.

Our Community Impact

Many of the people we serve come through our partner organization, Mercy and Truth Medical Missions. As their contracted pharmacy, we help ensure that patients receive consistent, affordable care. Together, we are making meaningful strides toward health equity in our community.

Thank You

To the SkillBuilders Fund, thank you for believing in our mission and investing in the health and stability of women and girls in Wyandotte County. Your support is creating real change, one patient at a time.

Woman smiling with text "SkillBuilders Fund Supports Women's Health"

Debunking Vaccine Myths: Why People with High Blood Pressure and Diabetes Need to Get Vaccinated

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Vaccines are one of the most safe and effective ways to prevent serious illness, yet myths and misinformation often keep people from getting the protection they need. Many people have never experienced a major outbreak of the many, once-deadly diseases that have been eliminated in the United States due to vaccines.  As vaccine hesitancy and complacency grows, the risk of re-emergence of these diseases increases.

If you have high blood pressure or diabetes, staying up to date on vaccinations is especially important. 

Why Vaccines Matter for People with High Blood Pressure & Diabetes 

Research shows that people with chronic conditions are at a higher risk of complications from vaccine-preventable diseases. For example: 

  • The Flu: Individuals with diabetes are three times more likely to be hospitalized from the flu. 
  • Pneumonia: People with hypertension have a higher risk of serious lung infections that can lead to hospitalization. 
  • COVID-19: Those with high blood pressure or diabetes face a significantly higher risk of severe illness and complications from COVID-19. 

Debunking Vaccine MythsLet’s talk about a few of the misconceptions about vaccines.  

Myth #1: Vaccines are Only for Children 

Fact: While vaccines play a crucial role in childhood health, they are just as important for adults, especially those with underlying health conditions. Certain illnesses, such as influenza and pneumonia, can be more severe in adults, especially adults with chronic conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes. Staying vaccinated reduces the risk of serious complications, hospitalizations, and even death. 

Myth #2: If I Manage My Condition with Medications, I Don’t Need Vaccines 

Fact: Even if your blood pressure or blood sugar is well-controlled, these conditions still weaken your immune system and increase your vulnerability to infections. A simple cold or flu can escalate into something far more dangerous, such as pneumonia or sepsis. Vaccination provides an extra layer of defense, reducing the likelihood of severe illness. 

Myth #3: Vaccines Can Make Me Sick 

Fact: Some people worry that vaccines will give them the illness they’re meant to prevent. However, vaccines contain either inactive or weakened viruses that cannot cause the disease. While some people may experience mild side effects, such as a sore arm or a low-grade fever, these symptoms are far less severe than the actual disease itself. Additionally, the “sick feeling” you experience is actually your body learning how to fight the disease. 

Myth #4: Many ingredients in vaccines are dangerous 

Fact:  Many of the ingredients in vaccines that some people are concerned about occur naturally.  They are included in vaccines in lower concentrations than are found in our daily food intake.  Formaldehyde is essential to human metabolism and energy building.  A pear contains 60x more formaldehyde than is found in any vaccine.  Polysorbate 80 is a stabilizer in many vaccines and in many foods that we consume every day, such as peanut butter and ice cream.  Aluminum helps boost the immune response to vaccines.  Higher levels are found in breastmilk, fruits, vegetables, and meats because it is the 3rd most abundant element on earth.   

 

Which Vaccines Should You Get? 

If you have high blood pressure or diabetes, here are some key vaccines recommended by health experts: 

  • Flu vaccine (annually) to reduce the risk of severe influenza complications. 
  • COVID-19 vaccine (as recommended by health authorities, including booster doses) to protect against severe illness and hospitalization. 
  • Pneumococcal vaccine (one-time, usually at age 50+, with possible booster for certain individuals) to prevent pneumonia and bloodstream infections. 
  • Shingles vaccine (two-dose series, usually recommended at age 50+) to lower the risk of painful shingles outbreaks. 
  • Tdap vaccine (once every 10 years) to protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). 

Vaccines Offered at Pharmacy of Grace  

We offer vaccines at Pharmacy of Grace in KCK Monday through Friday 9am until 3pm. Shawnee vaccinations are available Monday/Wednesday/Friday from 9am until 3pm (but may require advanced notice since vaccines are mostly stored in KCK)   

  • Flu vaccine – available for walk-in patients anytime  
  • COVID-19 vaccine – currently still have walk-in availability (call to verify)  
  • Pneumococcal vaccine – available for walk-in patients  
  • Shingles vaccine – call to verify availability  
  • Tdap vaccine – call to verify availability  

Take Action: Protect Your Health Today 

Your health is worth protecting. If you have high blood pressure or diabetes, talk to your healthcare provider about which vaccines are right for you. Vaccination is a simple yet powerful way to stay healthy, avoid hospital visits, and continue enjoying life without unnecessary health risks.  

 

Annual Report: 2024

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March 26, 2025 (Kansas City, KS) — Pharmacy of Grace is proud to share our 2024 Annual Report, highlighting the continued growth and impact of our work in providing affordable medications and essential healthcare services to our community.

This past year, we saw a significant rise in the number of patients we serve, particularly those facing financial hardship. More than 64% of our patients live below 100% of the Federal Poverty Level, up from 53% in the previous year. We also saw a major increase (7,110%)  in vaccinations for uninsured and low-income patients because of the strategic expansion of our immunization program, ensuring greater access to preventive care. 

Every number in this report represents a person whose life has been changed through access to life-saving medications and care. We are incredibly grateful for the support of our staff, board, donors, and community partners who make this work possible.

Thank you for being part of our mission to advance health equity in our community. Together we’re #MakingMedsMoreAccessible

Read the full 2024 Annual Report here: Pharmacy of Grace Digital Report

Annual Report Cover Page Image