Our Story: The Founding and Mission of the Good Samaritan Clinic
Born From a Calling to Serve
The Good Samaritan Clinic was founded through the vision and devotion of Dr. Lidia Navarrete, a physician from El Salvador whose journey has been marked by resilience, compassion, and deep purpose. After practicing medicine in her home country, Dr. Navarrete moved to the U.S., studied theology in Chicago, and later served in pastoral ministry in California.
When she arrived in Columbia, South Carolina, she saw a profound need in the Hispanic and immigrant communities—families living without access to medical care, health insurance, or trusted providers who spoke their language. She felt called—not just by circumstance, but by conviction—to respond with compassion, skill, and faith in action.
Our Founder, Lidia and the original GSC location, on Old Percival Rd in Columbia
Humble Beginnings
The foundations of the clinic were planted in 2000 through the First Hispanic Baptist Church of Columbia and Pastors Aníbal and Ruth Cruz. The church incorporated the clinic and opened it inside a small house on church property.
In 2001, Rev. Rubén Navarrete and Dr. Lidia Navarrete assumed leadership of the church and the clinic. With support from the Columbia Metro Baptist Association, the clinic began operating one evening per week, staffed by 12 volunteer physicians who served with love and dedication.
From the start, the name Good Samaritan reflected its mission:
to bind wounds, walk alongside the hurting, and provide care without barriers.
A Model Designed for Working Families
From day one—and still today—the clinic has operated in the evenings to serve patients who cannot afford to miss work. Each location is intentionally set within a house to create a warm, safe, and trustworthy environment. For many patients navigating language barriers, immigration fears, or past trauma, this home-like setting communicates:
“You belong here. You are welcome. You are not alone.”
Overcoming Legal Barriers and Paving the Way Forward
Early growth was limited by the lack of official nonprofit status. Recognizing this, Dr. Navarrete undertook the long process of securing 501(c)(3) designation, with support from community advocates. In November 2006, the Good Samaritan Clinic received its nonprofit status—opening the door to new partnerships, funding opportunities, and long-term sustainability.
Expanding to Serve More Communities
What began as one small clinic in Columbia has grown into a regional network of care:
2007: A second clinic opened in West Columbia through a partnership with Northside Baptist Church; a dedicated house became the permanent location in 2010.
2013: A third clinic opened in Chapin through the leadership of Medical Director Dr. Joseph Gabriel and Chapin Methodist Church; it now operates next to WE CARE.
2016: A fourth clinic opened on Edisto Island as a medical and dental center supported by the Presbyterian Church; it became independent in 2024.
2024: A new clinic opened in Lexington through a collaboration with the GSC Board of Directors and Dr. Paul Espinoza, in a space specially prepared for patient care.
Today, the Good Samaritan Clinic provides over 1,500 appointments each year with the support of more than 120 volunteers.
25 Years of Compassion in Action
As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, we honor the countless “Good Samaritans” who have shaped our story—physicians, nurses, interpreters, students, churches, donors, partner organizations, and the many volunteers who are the heart of our clinics.
Their commitment, love, and service have helped build exam rooms, welcome patients, and carry forward a mission rooted in dignity and compassion.
Looking Ahead
The story of the Good Samaritan Clinic is still being written.
We remain committed to expanding access, innovating care, and responding to the evolving needs of our community.
Every patient served, every volunteer who shows up, and every partner who joins this mission helps write the next chapter.
This is holy work—and we are grateful to walk this journey together.
