The Whatsoever Free Bed Association was founded in 1911 by women of the churches of Kalamazoo. It was incorporated officially in May of 1912. The women of the churches were contacted by Dr. Blanch W. Epler, who saw that there existed a need to help those who required health care but had no way to pay for it. Originally there was a bed designated at Bronson hospital for the use of these patients. The bed was eventually discontinued to respect the privacy of the patient. Mrs. Isabelle Bigelow was the first president of Whatsoever Free Bed.

In later years the association changed the ways in which they helped people with medical needs. Instead of supporting a free bed at the hospital, they helped with hospital bills, medications, medical appliances, dental work, eyeglasses, and telephone and electric bills when medically necessary. Referrals came from doctors, heads of churches, the health department, visiting nurses, senior services and the Red Cross. The Whatsoever Free Bed Association was funded by local churches, memorial contributions, bequests, and gifts from individuals.