In Fort Dodge, those who do not have health insurance have an option for getting high quality medical care.

It’s called the Community Health Center of Fort Dodge and it offers medical, dental and behavioral health care, with all fees based on a person’s ability to pay. It opened in 2006 and has been a key source of care for thousands of area residents since then.

A chance for everyone to support the Community Health Center that helps so many of our neighbors is now getting started.

The center is hosting a COVID era version of a masquerade ball. It’s called the virtual ”mask”erade fundraiser. It begins today and will continue through Nov. 13.

A raffle featuring prizes like a $2,500 Visa gift card, a family photo package and grocery gift cards from local supermarkets is a key part of the fundraiser. Raffle tickets cost $25 each or $100 for five of them. They can be purchased at Shimkat Motor Co., 3126 Fifth Ave. S., or from health center employees.

Another big part of the fundraiser is an online auction which begins at 8 a.m. today and runs through Nov. 13. To participate, go to biddingforgood.com/chcfortdodge. Auction items will be on display at Shimkat Motor Co.

Since this is a ”mask” erade fundraiser, there will be a mask photo contest. Mask photos can be uploaded to the event’s Facebook page and will be judged by health center staff member. Three winners will receive a $25 gift card.

This event will allow people to have some fun with the mask contest and maybe win some special items during the raffle and auction. But most importantly, it will generate some money to ensure that the Community Health Center of Fort Dodge can keep on caring for people whatever their financial or insurance status may be.