Biden-Harris Administration Invests $1.5M in three PA Community Health Centers including NSCHC

Health centers see patients regardless of ability to pay; early morning, late night, and weekend hours will provide new options for getting care for patients who lack sick leave or struggle with transportation, childcare, and other issues during typical business hours  

The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) announced a grant award to North Side Christian Health Center (NSCHC), which serves 4,000 people annually, to expand operating hours. This funding will enable early morning, night, and weekend hours at NSCHC’s 816 Middle Street and Northview Heights locations, improving access to care for those unable to visit during traditional business hours due to work, transportation, or childcare challenges.

“We are so pleased to have been a recipient of this grant so that we can extend our hours at both of our Northside locations. Providing services at times more convenient for the community aligns with our mission to provide care to all, regardless of ability to pay. Given the staffing requirements, we will incrementally extend the hours over the next 6-12 months,” said NSCHC CEO Bethany Blackburn.

HRSA-supported health centers provide care to over 31 million patients nationwide, regardless of their ability to pay, with more than 90% of patients living below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level.

“No one should have to delay or skip a trip to the doctor because of work or school. The millions of Americans who can’t miss their daytime work shift, whose kids are in school, who have limited childcare, or who face transportation challenges deserve the same access to quality care,” said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra. “These investments will help to extend operating hours, especially for patients in rural or underserved communities nationwide. I'm proud to be part of an Administration that leaves nobody behind.”

For more information on the awardees: HRSA Expanded Hours FY25 Awards
To find a health center: HRSA Find a Health Center