For 40 years Westside Family Health Center (WFHC) has been an integral part of the community, serving low-income men, women, children, and the uninsured population who live, work or attend school in and around Santa Monica, both at their clinic site, founded in 1974 and at the Mobile Medical Unit launched in 2011.
This extraordinary accomplishment will be celebrated with a “fabulously funky” Birthday Bash this Saturday, March 15 at Le Meridien Delfina in Santa Monica.
Dancing, drinks, and food from the ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s, and today will be enjoyed along with dance exhibitions and lessons from John Cassese, known for nearly 30 years as the Dance Doctor.
At the event, WFHC will recognize District Los Angeles County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky with the Outstanding Community Leader Award for his strong voice for the health of the underserved in Los Angeles County, allowing the Center to become instrumental in the health and well-being of so many over the years.
Proceeds from the event are critically important to continuing WFHC’s five core health programs.
WFHC was founded by a small group of dedicated community leaders and health care providers who came together to start the Women’s Health Care Project as part of a larger social justice movement in Santa Monica.
The women learned more about their bodies and their health, shared experiences and became empowered through knowledge. Eventually, The Women’s Health Care Project came to be known as the Westside Women’s Center and then expanded into what it is today – Westside Family Health Center, a Federally Qualified Health Center since 2007.
Now, not only do they treat women, but men and children as well.
Services include diagnosis, treatment, prevention and education in the areas of prenatal care, pediatric care, adolescent health care and a family practice program that includes a strong healthy aging component.
WFHC also provides community outreach and education about multiple health care topics, including diabetes prevention and care, the Affordable Care Act, how to enroll through Covered California and more.
Going forward, WFHC hopes to continue to build on a 40-year tradition of care and commitment in its quest for healthier communities.
Future aspirations include owning its own clinic space and adding programs in mental health, dental and vision care.
For tickets or more information on the 40th Birthday Bash, visit wfhc.eventbrite.com.
