Betances Health Center

Founded in 1970 as a grassroots mobile unit bring urgently needed medical services to the lower east side’s medically indigent and homeless. In its early years BETANCES operated out of a makeshift office above a pickle factory on Essex Street, delivering health services from a mobile health unit. Initial services for the homeless and medically indigent included screening, immunizations, family planning, health education, advocacy and referrals. Our pioneering strategy of integrated care merges traditional western medicine and specialty services with holistic treatments that are consonant with diverse health care believes and practices. By 1976, the organization had obtained the authorization to operate as a free clinic. In 1986 BETANCES HEALTH CENTER moved to its current location at 280 Henry Street. Today, has emerged as a leader in community base primary care and remains committed to its mission of promoting quality healthcare as a basic right for all, regardless of ability to pay. Betances will build on their success addressing the healthcare needs of the less fortunate expanding our line up of scope of services to attract more individuals in one of the most diverse immigrant community.