Senator Booker visits Red Bank Pharmacy

By:  | October 23, 2024 |  |  Red Bank

By Matt Doherty

On a Sunday afternoon in August, U.S. Senator Cory Booker made a significant stop at the Ritesh Shah Charitable Pharmacy, located at 224 Shrewsbury Ave. in Red Bank, as part of his 21-County Summer Tour. The visit underscored the pharmacy's pivotal work in delivering free medications and healthcare services to uninsured and underserved populations in the area.

"We are so honored to have our own Senator Cory Booker visit the Ritesh Shah Charitable Pharmacy today," stated Ritesh Shah, the founder of the pharmacy. "We are deeply humbled that Senator Booker took the time out of his busy schedule to meet with our board members and staff to discuss the impact of our mission in the Red Bank community. It was so inspiring to hear him speak today, and we hope to continue providing medications and other pharmacy services to those in need."

Senator Booker's visit drew a crowd of about two dozen supporters of the pharmacy, including board members and elected officials such as State Senator Vin Gopal and Red Bank Deputy Mayor Kate Triggiano. The pharmacy, usually closed on Sundays, opened its doors for this special occasion to allow community leaders and friends to engage with the Senator.

During his visit, Senator Booker praised the work of the Ritesh Shah Charitable Pharmacy, stating, "I just look at these numbers, and I am knocked over. Literally millions of dollars worth of help and support from the medication itself to the experts to do this. I am blessed this summer with my 21-County Tour, and I get to travel up and down the state, but I don't think there's going to be a stop that is more inspiring than this stop here today."

Senator Gopal echoed these sentiments, noting the vital role the pharmacy plays in the community. "It’s truly an honor to have Senator Booker come to Red Bank and recognize the amazing work the Ritesh Shah Charitable Pharmacy does every day for families facing economic hardship. I am so proud of what my friend Ritesh has accomplished and built. He truly has a passion for serving the needs of low-income families in our community."

The Ritesh Shah Charitable Pharmacy, a 501(c)3 non-profit, operates with a clear mission: to increase access to medications, immunizations, health education, and pharmacy services for uninsured and underserved patients, thereby reducing clinical and social health inequities. Its vision is to create a healthier community by providing access to medication, education, and services that reduce health disparities.

Among its services, the pharmacy offers free prescription medications for conditions such as blood pressure, diabetes, nutrition, and mental health. It also provides over-the-counter medications free of charge for eligible patients, though those who can afford them are encouraged to purchase them, contributing to the charity's funding.

The pharmacy also supports community health through immunizations, helping students attend school safely, and offers health education to prevent disease by promoting a healthy lifestyle. Collaborative efforts with partners enhance its range of services, including medication counseling and educational outreach.

Eligibility for the pharmacy's services is extended to individuals at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level and those not covered by any form of prescription insurance. Proof of income and lack of medical insurance are required to qualify, with the pharmacy partnering with the Parker Clinic to provide eligibility forms to patients.

The pharmacy also carries eight different types of insulin through a Lilly program in collaboration with the Dispensary of Hope, ensuring that diabetic patients have access to life-saving medication.

The Ritesh Shah Charitable Pharmacy invites community members to contribute through donations or volunteer work. Although the pharmacy does not yet offer prescription delivery, it maintains partnerships with free and charitable clinics to streamline prescription services. The pharmacy operates Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., ensuring accessibility for those in need.

Senator Booker's visit to the pharmacy not only shone a spotlight on its invaluable work but also underscored the importance of supporting initiatives that aim to reduce health disparities and improve the lives of New Jersey residents. As he continues his 21-County Summer Tour, the impact of such organizations remains a focal point in his commitment to fostering stronger, healthier communities across the state.