The Good Sam Friday Clinic
Every Friday morning for the last 10 years, the Good Samaritan Health Center—affectionately known as “Good Sam”—has opened its doors to neighbors experiencing homelessness, offering not just medical care, but dignity, hope, and community through its Friday Clinic.
Founded nearly 30 years ago by Dr. Bill Warren, Good Sam was born out of a conviction that every person deserves access to quality healthcare, no matter their zip code or income. What started as a small clinic in the heart of the city is now a full-circle health center offering medical, dental, mental health, and nutrition services—all under one roof.
When Good Sam relocated to Atlanta’s Westside in 2009, the team knew something was missing. “We felt like we had kind of left our neighbors experiencing homelessness behind,” shared Heather Kersey, Chief Development Officer at Good Sam. “Our new location was not necessarily close to the parks where they were residing. And we started working to find a way to permanently offer at least one day a week where we could serve people who are experiencing homelessness or in the shelter system.”
That effort led to the launch of the Friday Clinic in 2015—a fully donor-funded, weekly clinic that now sees over 4,000 patient visits each year.
Each patient who walks through the doors on Friday receives a complete medical, dental, and mental health assessment. On any given Friday, a single patient may meet with up to four healthcare professionals. For many, it's the first time they’ve experienced this level of integrated, compassionate care. Good Sam even provides shuttle transportation to and from locations across the city, removing yet another barrier to access.
“Friday is the staff’s favorite day of the week,” said Heather. “It feels like the purest form of our mission. It’s always a crazy day, but it really does feel like the gospel being lived out.”
As partners through the Be Rich campaign, Buckhead Church has been able to play a role in the incredible work Good Sam is doing. Not only has your generosity helped Good Sam fund Friday Clinics, you’ve also been generous with your time. From donating meals and hygiene kits to showing up to serve, worship, and connect with patients, Buckhead Church volunteers have supported Good Sam for several years.
“Friday Clinics last year saw over 4,000 patient encounters,” said Heather. “That’s 4,000 lives touched with healing and comfort, but also touched by the gospel. We believe everyone deserves a chance at a healthy life, and Buckhead Church makes that possible. We’re very, very grateful.”
