The Paterson Community Health (PCHC) traces its roots to the mid-1970s, when two church-based health centers—St. Philip’s Ecumenical Association for Urban Concerns and Calvary Baptist Church Community Health Center—were established to serve underserved residents in Paterson, New Jersey. Supported by federal funding, these centers provided essential primary care services to the community’s most vulnerable populations. On September 28, 1988, the two organizations united under the Paterson Community Health Network, formally aligning their missions and resources. In 1994, the organization was incorporated as Paterson Community Health, establishing a single, unified entity dedicated to expanding access to care.
Since that time, PCHC has grown into a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), providing comprehensive medical, dental, and preventive services to low-income and uninsured residents. With its main facility located at 32 Clinton Street, the Health Center continues its longstanding commitment to ensuring that no patient is denied care due to an inability to pay.
A defining chapter in the Health Center’s history was shaped by the leadership of Dr. Mary Elizabeth Garner, who served as Chief Executive Officer from 1991 to 2023. A lifelong resident of Paterson and a licensed clinical psychologist, Dr. Garner led the organization through a period of transformation, growth, and stability. When she assumed leadership during a time of organizational uncertainty, she brought a steady hand, strong vision, and deep commitment to the community. Over the course of more than three decades, she oversaw the expansion of services and facilities, including the development of the 32 Clinton Street health center and the modernization of the Broadway location, significantly increasing access to care across the city.
Dr. Garner’s impact extended far beyond infrastructure. Under her leadership, the Health Center provided care to hundreds of thousands of patients across pediatric, adult, OB-GYN, dental, podiatry, and behavioral health services. She was a tireless advocate for equitable access to healthcare, working with federal, state, and local leaders to secure resources and expand services for underserved populations. Known for her directness, generosity, and unwavering dedication, she mentored staff, supported patients in moments of need, and invested deeply in the people and community she served.
Looking Ahead
Health care needs change, and we continue to evolve alongside the communities we serve. By listening to our patients and working closely with local partners, we are able to identify gaps, improve services, and plan for the future.
Our goal is steady and long-term. Help individuals and families across New Jersey live healthier lives with care that is accessible, respectful, and consistent.
If you are looking for a provider that treats you like a person first, Paterson Community Health is here to help.