Dr. Arnoldo Villarreal says he works in the nicest eye clinic in town.

And he does it for free as a way to help humanity, the 40-year ophthalmologist said.

Villarreal volunteers his time and expertise at Mission of Mercy, 2421 Ayers St.

"I enjoy my work. I really enjoy helping the poor as well," he said as he stood by new eye exam equipment. "I've done this all my life. Even in my office when someone could pay, 'Well, okay.' That's the way it is."

Mission of Mercy provides free healthcare, vision care, diabetes management classes and more to uninsured and working poor people in the Coastal Bend.

The clinic does not take government funding. Instead, it relies on donations from people, corporations and foundations, said Sherry Bowers, executive director.

Recently, the clinic upgraded its vision clinic after receiving a $50,000 grant from the LaVerne and Thomas Howell Foundation.

The grant covered the costs for new exam chairs, lamps and vision testing equipment, among others tools needed.

In the clinic, Villarreal sees about six to 10 patients a day. When his college, Dr. William Newberry is volunteering alongside Villarreal, the duo sees about 20 to 25 patients a day, Villarreal said.

Tools used by Villarreal can detect glaucoma, tumors and overall eye health.

The vision clinic is a portion of medical care Mission of Mercy offers patients.

What does Mission of Mercy do?

Mission of Mercy's Corpus Christi building was completed in 2018. The clinic used to operate out of an RV.

They also provide services to patients in Sandia.

Patients without insurance can receive medical care at Mission of Mercy. People with Medicare, Medicaid or a county health card are not eligible, Bowers said.

"We're for the people that fall through the cracks," Bowers said. "It's amazing, the amount of people who are serving and continue to serve."

About 138 volunteers help run the clinic — including 25 physicians and several registered nurses.

The clinic helps patients get prescriptions free or at a lower cost. The clinic also keeps insulin, as a majority of patients they see are diabetic, Bowers said.

Patients can also receive nutrition education, behavioral health counseling and classes for health and financial help.

"Our mission is to restore dignity," Bowers said.

How to help

Mission of Mercy's biggest fundraising event of the year is on March 6.

The event, dubbed Mash Bash, is based on the legendary TV shot Mash. Country artist Tracy Byrd will perform.

For more information about Mission of Mercy or about Mash Bash, visit www.missionofmercy.org/texas.

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Alexandria Rodriguez covers breaking news and crime in South Texas. Support local news by checking out our subscription options and special offers at Caller.com/subscribe