Family Health Day in South LA Creates Holistic Access to Wellness
August 17, 2023
By Rodd A. Amos
Contributing Writer
To coincide with National Health Center Week, South Central Family Health Center, recently, brought together residents, nonprofit organizations, and healthcare providers for a morning of health and wellness.
SCFHC, a federally qualified health center, provides affordable and comprehensive health care and education for the diverse communities of South LA and Southeast LA County.
The community-driven celebration convened at Augustus F. Hawkins Nature Park at Compton and Slauson Avenues in the Central Alameda corridor — a tranquil, 8.5-acre green space featuring native flora and wetlands, plus a small museum with nature exhibits.
The park was named after the late U.S. congressman, who, in 1963, became the first elected African American Congressman west of the Mississippi.
California Landscape Architect Stephanie Landregan designed and project-managed Hawkins Nature Park. “This park is for families. You can have a wedding, a Quinceanera, or a birthday party, and feel welcome,” she said.
“An oft-overlooked aspect of health is access to green space. We are not only excited to provide the venue, but to create partnerships that address holistic needs for healing in the community,” added Park Director Damon Hooks. 
Family Health Day featured community resources, health screenings, raffles and games, and a special giveaway of backpacks packed with essential school supplies to support members of the community just in time for the beginning of the school year. The generous contribution was made possible through the support of SCFHC partners like Anthem, HRSA, LA Care, the Los Angeles Kings, and others.
“No organization can do this alone,” remarked David Roman, SCFHC Director of Development and Communications.
“When you’re talking about promoting wellness in the community, there are roles for community health centers, government offices, public agencies, insurance companies, and community-based organizations because we’re all trying to achieve one goal: community wellness,” he said.
SCFHC executive Richard Veloz expressed enthusiasm for Family Health Day. “We're thrilled to join forces with community organizations in South LA and elected officials to emphasize the resources available to all, regardless of their ability to pay. Our goal is to ensure that the communities we serve utilize the diverse programs and resources at their disposal, empowering them to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives,” stated Veloz.
Every August, the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) sponsors National Health Center Week to celebrate and increase awareness of America’s 1,400 Community Health Centers (CHCs) who play a critical role in delivering comprehensive care to over 30 million patients through 14,500 service delivery sites across the U.S.
“We proudly support this event that not only focuses on backpack giveaways but on resources to live in this city”, said District 9 Councilmember Curren D. Price in his keynote address.
“Most events focus on one aspect of community wellness, but families need so much more, such as food security, housing assistance, and mental health resources, all of which can be accessed at Family Health Day,” he stated.
South Central Family Health Center, located at 4425 South Central Avenue, is a nonprofit health services provider that delivers high quality primary care, dental, and mental health to area residents in a welcoming and multicultural environment and regardless of ability to pay.
In 2020, SCFHC provided health services to nearly 26,000 patients from ten service delivery sites.
For more information, visit www.scfhc.org.
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