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Greater LA

For 50 years, Venice Family Clinic serves Angelenos who can’t afford basic healthcare

Fifty years ago, LA doctors Philip Rossman and Mayer Davidson realized that some people in their community couldn’t afford basic healthcare.

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By Steve Chiotakis • Mar 6, 2020 • 1 min read

Fifty years ago, LA doctors Philip Rossman and Mayer Davidson realized that some people in their community couldn’t afford basic healthcare. So they borrowed a local dentist’s office in Venice and started treating patients there for free (after hours).

On its 50th anniversary, the Venice Family Clinic has grown to operate in 12 westside locations that serve nearly 28,000 patients a year.

We hear from CEO Elizabeth Forer, plus Dr. Michael Wilkes, who’s been volunteering there for many years and co-founded its teen clinic in 1998.

  • https://images.ctfassets.net/2658fe8gbo8o/AvYox6VuEgcxpd20Xo9d3/769bca4fbf97bf022190f4813812c1e2/new-default.jpg?h=250

    Steve Chiotakis

    Afternoon News Anchor

  • KCRW placeholder

    Christian Bordal

    Managing Producer, Greater LA

  • KCRW placeholder

    Jenna Kagel

    Radio producer

  • KCRW placeholder

    Elizabeth Forer

    CEO and executive director of the Venice Family Clinic

  • https://images.ctfassets.net/2658fe8gbo8o/AvYox6VuEgcxpd20Xo9d3/769bca4fbf97bf022190f4813812c1e2/new-default.jpg?h=250

    Michael Wilkes

    Host of 'Second Opinion'

    CultureLos AngelesHealth & Wellness
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