The History of Athens Neighborhood Health Center

This vision became a reality in 1971 with Athens Neighborhood Health Center (ANHC), which was part of the national War on Poverty initiative, launched under President Lyndon B. Johnson and passed by Congress on November 3, 1966. It was funded through the Model Cities Program, which addressed deep-rooted poverty, violence, and inequities in urban communities.

ANHC’s first location was a trailer on Berlin Street, serving residents east of the Oconee River, an area then known as “East of Athens.” This community, primarily African American and severely underserved, lacked basic infrastructure and access to essential services, including healthcare. Those who visited this area often compared the living conditions to those of a third world country.

The four founders, affectionately known as “The Four Matrons,” dedicated their lives to changing these unjust conditions. Their work extended beyond healthcare. They influenced the education system with involvement in HeadStart and similar programs. Community safety, economic development, and access to opportunity throughout Athens improved thanks to their efforts. The neighborhood, known as the Iron Triangle, became a thriving community.

After a fire destroyed the original trailer site, ANHC continued serving patients at temporary clinics before relocating in 1987 to 675 College Avenue, where it still has an office today. Currently, Athens Neighborhood Health Center operates four locations, including an administrative office, two clinical sites, and a school-based clinic. Our facilities serve thousands of residents in Athens-Clarke County and surrounding communities.