How American Churches Are Erasing Millions in Medical Debt—and Why It Matters

Guest Commentary

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By Amber Ginter, Crosswalk.com

Debt has been a problem for centuries, but did you know that the medical debt crisis in the U.S. has recently reached a breaking point?

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), this crisis impacts over 100 million Americans. Not only are high costs at stake, but these individuals have inadequate insurance, pop-up bills, and low coverage, often leading to financial ruin, delayed care, or even bankruptcy. KFF further reports that 1 in 6 Americans claims “debt,” just under half say it’s difficult to afford proper health care, and 36% say they’ve skipped or postponed getting health care they needed because of costs. Add the mess of prescription drugs into the mix, and one in five adults (21%) say they’ve not filled a prescription because of the cost.

In 2022, 4 in 10 reported debt due to mental or dental bills, but this number is only rising. And even those who are covered by health insurance aren’t immune to the burdens of these costs. But there is hope. Local churches aren’t just stepping up to proclaim goodwill towards men; they’re seeking to help individuals walk debt-free.

The Christian Daily reports that Spirit and Truth Church in Atlanta, Georgia, has cleared over $1.5 million in medical debt for those struggling in the community. Rev. Mark Moore Jr. explains that his Church is just one of several that have raised funds to help pay off medical debt over the years. As an inspiration to others, Moore notes, “Medical debt should never determine a family's future or rob individuals of dignity and peace. This Christmas, Spirit and Truth Church chose to respond with faith in action — lifting a burden that no one should have to carry alone.”

Today, other churches have joined this growing movement of biblical compassion and stewardship. Saint Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Omaha, Nebraska, Trinity Moravian Church in North Carolina, and Saint Andrew’s Parish in Saratoga, California, are just a few examples, each raising thousands to millions spanning numerous counties.

Millions of Americans are burdened by medical debt. This is a fact that causes a disproportionate impact on low-income families. After all, medical debt is a leading cause of financial stress in most homes. But the Church can play a role.

Beyond raising funds, churches like these have partnered with nonprofits like RIP Medical Debt and Undue Medical Debt. These organizations and partnerships make it easy for donors (Churches) to make a difference in the lives of those struggling with medical debt. These processes work by using donor funds to purchase medical bills from hospitals and collectors, and then forgiving them for people in hardship. Essentially, millions are erased through collective giving.

Not only are many churches partnering with organizations like these, but they are emphasizing community, dignity, and anonymity. Because the focus isn’t on the Church or even the giving, but on God who enables them to give. And just as Jesus has forgiven us our debt, why wouldn’t we choose to forgive and bless others financially as we’re able?

In Matthew 25:35-40, we read these words: “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you as a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me’ “ (NIV).

Notice that Jesus didn’t just mention food, money, or clothing. He mentioned all of it. Because we are whole people who require complex care. But in every statement, we see love, compassion, and generosity—three things we’re continually called to give away today.

Medical debt relief is one form of modern-day mercy ministry that individuals can partake in. It’s the church reclaiming its role in practical compassion and living faith out in action. Today, you might not be in a church that supports these types of funding. That’s okay. You can still pray, give, and advocate, for it’s always more blessed to give than to receive.

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Amber Ginter is a teacher-turned-author who loves Jesus, her husband Ben, and granola. Growing up Amber looked for faith and mental health resources and found none. Today, she offers hope for young Christians struggling with mental illness that goes beyond simply reading your Bible and praying more. Because you can love Jesus and still suffer from anxiety. You can download her top faith and mental health resources for free to help navigate books, podcasts, videos, and influencers from a faith lens perspective. Visit her website at amberginter.com.