Barbara Calhoun, representative from State Senator Laura Richardson’s office, awarding a certificate of recognition to AltaMed.
Los Angeles, CA — Hundreds of Watts-area residents gathered at Ted Watkins Memorial Park on Saturday, Sept. 19, as AltaMed Health Services brought free preventive health care, vaccinations, enrollment assistance and other community resources directly to local families.
The three-hour Community Wellness Day offered residents an opportunity to receive health services without an appointment or insurance, part of an effort to reduce barriers to care in a community where access to preventive services remains a concern.
Attendees received free health checkups, flu vaccinations, thyroid and dental screenings, along with other preventive health services. AltaMed staff were also available to assist residents with Medi-Cal and Covered California enrollment as families continue navigating changes and uncertainty surrounding health coverage.
The event came as health providers prepare for the upcoming flu season. Organizers said bringing vaccinations and screenings into the community was intended to make preventive care easier to access for residents who may not routinely receive those services.
In addition to health care services, families received groceries and fresh produce through an on-site food distribution. Flowers, family activities and information about employment opportunities with AltaMed were also among the resources available during the event.
Community Wellness Day was hosted by AltaMed in partnership with Sisters of Watts, Think Watts Foundation and East Side Riders Bike Club.
The event also drew representatives from state and local leadership, reflecting broader discussions about expanding access to comprehensive health services throughout South Los Angeles.
AltaMed has maintained a presence in the Watts community for more than a decade through its PACE South LA senior care center on East Century Boulevard. The health organization describes itself as the largest independent Federally Qualified Health Center in the United States.
For residents who attended Saturday’s event, the wellness day placed medical screenings, vaccination services, health coverage assistance and basic necessities in one centralized neighborhood location — an approach community health organizations increasingly use to reach families who may otherwise face obstacles accessing care.
