L.A. Care Health Plan and Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan Open New Community Resource Center in South L.A.

On October 11, 2024, a significant milestone was achieved in South Los Angeles with the grand opening of a new Community Resource Center (CRC) operated by L.A. Care Health Plan and Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan. Located at 5710 Crenshaw Blvd, this center is the 13th of its kind in Los Angeles County, designed to enhance the health and wellness of local residents.

A Hub for Health and Wellness

The South L.A. Community Resource Center will be open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering a diverse array of free classes, programs, and services. These initiatives aim to improve both the physical and mental health of community members, reflecting a holistic approach to well-being.

John Baackes, CEO of L.A. Care, emphasized the importance of comprehensive health resources, stating, “We know that a healthy life depends on more than just medical check-ups.” He highlighted the center’s offerings, which include Zumba classes for physical activity, healthy cooking sessions to promote nutritious choices, and meditation groups to help reduce anxiety. The center is designed to cater to a wide range of interests and needs, ensuring that everyone in the community can find something beneficial.

Community Engagement and Programming

The development of the South L.A. Community Resource Center was informed by direct feedback from local residents. A year prior to the opening, the center’s team conducted a survey that garnered responses from over 400 community members. A notable request was for mental health support programs for all ages. In response, the center will offer a variety of mental health-focused classes, including:

• Meditation and Healing for all ages
• Little Voices with Lots of Feelings for children aged 1 to 6
• Yoga for youths aged 12 to 16
• Managing Stress classes available in Spanish

This tailored programming reflects the center’s commitment to addressing the specific needs of the South L.A. community.

Additional Offerings

Beyond mental health support, the South L.A. Community Resource Center will provide a range of services aimed at promoting overall health and well-being. Visitors can participate in:

• Fitness Classes: Including Zumba, balance and stability training, and other exercise programs.
• Healthy Cooking Classes: Designed to educate participants on nutritious meal preparation.
• Enrollment Services: Assistance with Medi-Cal and CalFresh applications to ensure residents have access to essential health and nutrition services.

These offerings are part of a broader initiative to empower community members with the knowledge and resources they need to lead healthier lives.

A Commitment to Community Health

The opening of the South L.A. Community Resource Center is part of a larger commitment by L.A. Care and Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan to invest in local health, behavioral, and social needs. Together, the two organizations have pledged $146 million to enhance community health services across Los Angeles County.

Kristen Cerf, president and CEO of Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan, remarked, “Since the start of our partnership with L.A. Care, the focus in our Community Resource Centers has been on listening to the needs of our members and local residents.” This collaborative approach aims to transform healthcare delivery by integrating unique programming and social services that keep residents active, healthy, and informed.

Looking Ahead

The South L.A. Community Resource Center is not the only facility in this initiative; another center is set to open later this year in Lincoln Heights, bringing the total to 14 CRCs serving the diverse populations of Los Angeles County.

For those interested in learning more about the Community Resource Centers and the specific offerings available at the South L.A. location, additional information can be found at CommunityResourceCenterLA.org or by visiting the South L.A. center’s dedicated page.

Conclusion

The grand opening of the South L.A. Community Resource Center represents a significant step forward in addressing the health and wellness needs of the community. By providing accessible resources and programs, L.A. Care Health Plan and Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan are fostering a healthier, more informed, and engaged community. This initiative not only enhances individual well-being but also strengthens the social fabric of South Los Angeles, paving the way for a brighter, healthier future for all residents.