Shoals Community Clinic

The Shoals Community Clinic is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with the Employer Identification Number (EIN) 63-1187626. It was established in October 1997 to serve the health care needs of the Shoals Area of Northwest Alabama. Initially known as the Northwest Alabama Community Health Association, it was incorporated to provide accessible and affordable quality health services to the low-income working population. In 2016, the organization officially adopted the name Shoals Community Clinic.

Mission and Services

The clinic's mission is to provide primary health and dental care to individuals without health benefits in the community. It aims to offer quality, safe, and affordable services to the general working public living near or below the poverty level. Services are provided in an outpatient setting under the supervision of a medical director and certified registered nurse practitioners, including primary medical care, diagnostic lab work, and assistance with medications.

Programs and Outreach

• The Well Woman Project: Offers monthly well woman exams and participates in various health education initiatives.
• Community Health Fairs: Provides free screenings and vaccines annually.
• Catherine Barnes Women’s Health Fair: Offers free women’s health services each April.
• Community Garden: Available for area residents to grow their own vegetables.

History and Milestones

• 1997: Incorporated as a non-profit and established partnerships with local educational and health organizations.
• 1998: Hosted the first Free Community Health Fair.
• 2000: Opened a dental clinic with volunteer dentists.
• 2011: Received recognition for the Well Woman Project as part of National Women’s Health Week.
• 2012-2015: Received grants for equipment and improvements, marking milestones in service provision.
• 2017: Celebrated its 20th anniversary, having provided over 35,000 patient services.
• 2022: Marked its 25th anniversary year.

Values and Impact

The clinic emphasizes access, respect, accountability, and sustainability in its operations. It strives to create a community where everyone has access to quality healthcare, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment that values all individuals. The clinic serves Colbert and Lauderdale Counties in Alabama, with reach extending to parts of Mississippi and Tennessee.