In honor of Black History Month, ANHC would like to spotlight the four founders of ANHC: Evelyn Neely, Jessie Barnett, Miriam Moore, and Virginia Walker. In the 1960s, there was an area known as “East of Athens,” located east of the Oconee River. This area’s residents were primarily African American and very poor. They had minimal (if any) access to sewer lines, schooling, childcare, healthcare, and many other basic necessities. Those who visited this area often compared the living conditions to that of a third world country. Our four beloved founders, sometimes referred to as “The Four Matrons,” dedicated their lives to improving this area and others like it. Athens Neighborhood Health Center began in a trailer in this part of the city, offering healthcare to many who would not have access otherwise. These four great women made an enormous impact on this area. They changed the school system by their heavy involvement in HeadStart and similar programs. When a mentally impaired man was shot and killed in this same neighborhood in 1995, they affected and changed the way the police interacted with the community. The neighborhood known as the Iron Triangle became an economic benefit and thriving area thanks in part to these four great women. “East of Athens” did not even have a bridge over the river in which they could cross to the better part of town. Our founders fought to change that. This Black History Month, we honor these four amazing women, without whom, Athens Neighborhood Health Center would not exist.
Black History Month is a reminder of both the progress made and the disparities that still exist today. Access to healthcare, education, and resources remains unequal for many communities. At ANHC, we are committed to continuing the work our founders began by addressing those gaps and ensuring that all members of our community have access to the care they deserve.
