Columbia, SC (WLTX) -- This weekend, health care providers across the Midlands are coming together to provide at least $1 million in free services to those in need here in Columbia.
"I am completely blown away that there's so many people here to help," said Winona Halbert, a student volunteer with Fortis College.
With 1,500 volunteers and physicians from all over the Midlands, SC Mission 2012 is almost underway. Chariman John Kessler said the public will have access to medical, dental and vision care for free.
"We will have x-rays...there's a pharmacy that's available," he said. "We will have two mammography vans here and the state HIV van, as well."
The State Fairgrounds parking lot will open at 4 a.m. tomorrow. At 6 a.m. wristbands will be given out. Patients will be able to choose one medical service and can go to another if time permits. The United Way of the Midlands said they're expecting 2,000 people.
"If you come in here and you have a wrist band, you will be seen," said Kessler.
SC Mission 2012 is providing an automated phone line giving constant updates on wait times and more. The number to call is 296-2900.
Out of all the services, last year dental proved to be the most popular. Dental Access Days is teaming up with SC Mission for the first time in Columbia, and Dr. Lee Ayers said the community has helped a lot.
"No one has turned us down when we asked to come on board and partner with us," he said.
The event runs until 6 p.m. Friday. On Saturday, SC Mission 2012 starts at 6 a.m. and ends at 3 p.m.
The event staff and the fairgrounds are asking people not to park in the lots overnight.