A nonprofit pharmacy providing long-term medication access for uninsured and underinsured Kansas Citians
In the heart of Kansas City, Kansas, Pharmacy of Grace is reshaping what healthcare access looks like—one prescription at a time. This 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable pharmacy, which opened its doors in August 2022, is rooted in a simple but powerful mission: to provide long-term, affordable access to medications for uninsured and underinsured individuals across Wyandotte County and beyond.
Wyandotte County consistently ranks among the most economically challenged areas in the Kansas City metro. With 30–40% of residents lacking insurance and a high burden of chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and asthma, access to affordable medication is not just a health issue—it’s a matter of economic survival. These conditions, when unmanaged, can contribute to cycles of homelessness, job loss, and frequent hospitalizations.
Pharmacy of Grace was born out of this urgent need. Inspired by a similar model in Ohio, founder and pharmacist John Yost envisioned a space where people could receive not just prescriptions, but also compassion, education, and sustained support. That vision came to life with the launch of Pharmacy of Grace.
Through Pharmacy of Grace, eligible patients can receive prescriptions at deeply discounted rates—or at no cost at all—based on a sliding scale. Patients living at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) qualify for the program, with more than half of current clients falling under 100% FPL. That translates to an annual income of just $15,060 for an individual or $31,200 for a family of four.
But Pharmacy of Grace is not just about dispensing medicine—it’s about continuity of care. Clients are paired with pharmacy staff for personalized counseling that promotes medication adherence, health literacy, and disease management. In a region where 1 in 10 residents are uninsured and many more are underinsured, the impact of this work is profound. The Health Equity Action Transformation (HEAT) report highlights the high uninsured rate in Pharmacy of Grace’s service area and the correlation with preventable hospital readmissions. Pharmacy of Grace is helping to interrupt this trend—making health more accessible, and outcomes more equitable.
At its core, Pharmacy of Grace believes that access to medication is access to hope. Their inclusive, equity-centered approach ensures that every individual—regardless of income, insurance status, or background—has the opportunity to thrive.
To learn more or get involved, visit pharmacyofgrace.org.
