Black and Brown people have among the lowest COVID-19 booster vaccination rates. Clinics from the Southside Coalition of Community Health Centers are located in several South Los Angeles neighborhoods and provide both vaccines and boosters. They are also available to answer questions about vaccines, testing and other health-related matters. (Getty Images)

With clinics all over South Los Angeles, Inglewood, Compton and more, the Southside Coalition of Community Health Centers raises a unified voice for the health care needs of South Los Angeles.  

The coalition, established in 2004, is now a network of eight Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), representing more than 50 community- and school-based health clinics serving the South Los Angeles region. 

Southside Coalition community health centers have been at the forefront of helping Black and Brown community members get vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19 and protecting themselves and their families from severe illness that can impact overall health and ability to work. Southside Coalition member clinics have provided COVID-19 vaccines and testing since both became available, which is especially convenient for community members who may need to get tested regularly to go to their places of work. 

Watts Healthcare Corporation operates several community clinics in South L.A. (File photo)

In some cases, Southside Coalition health centers have partnered with schools, churches and faith organizations to host vaccine clinics directly in the neighborhoods they are in, such as the following recent pop-up clinic locations: 

• Crenshaw Science, Technology, Engineering, Math and Medicine Magnet – clinic run by T.H.E. Health and Wellness Centers; 
• George Washington Preparatory High – clinic operated by St. John’s Community Health. 

“Our church is pleased to partner with St. John’s Community Health clinic to bring COVID-19 vaccines and testing directly to our congregation,” said Pastor Alvin Tunstill, Jr., of Trinity Baptist Church in Los Angeles, adding, “We are so glad to be here to support our families with the necessary resources to help keep our communities healthy.” 

“As the fourth booster vaccine has now become available and regulations are relaxing in many of our neighborhoods, the Black and Brown communities still have among the highest case rates of COVID-19. But according to data, our booster rates are low. Getting a booster vaccine is an important step to consider especially for seniors and individuals with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma and more,” said Andrea Williams, MPA, executive director, Southside Coalition of Community Health Centers.  

  At Southside Coalition clinics, Black and Latinx physicians, nurses, pharmacists and more health care workers are ready and available to answer questions about vaccines, testing and other health-related matters.   

“With eight leading health centers and more than 50 sites, all in your neighborhood, we are making it quick, easy and convenient to take a step to protect yourself and your family by getting vaccinated and boosted,” Williams added. 

To make an appointment to get the COVID-19 vaccine or a booster at a clinic, call (213) 221-2463. For more information, visit Southside Coalition of Community Health Centers’ website at southsidecoalition.org/booster.  

The eight community health centers are: 

• Eisner Health: clinics in downtown Los Angeles and Lynwood. 

• South Central Family Health Center: clinics in South Los Angeles, Cudahy, Huntington Park, Vernon. 
• Watts Healthcare Corporation: clinics in Watts and Crenshaw. 
• St. John’s Community Health: clinic locations in areas including South Los Angeles, Crenshaw, Compton, East Compton, Lynwood. 
• T.H.E. Health and Wellness Centers: clinics in South Los Angeles, Inglewood, Crenshaw, Lennox. 
• UMMA Community Clinic (University Muslim Medical Association): clinics in South Los Angeles. 

• Central City Community Health Center: clinics in South Los Angeles. 
• Venice Family Clinic: clinics in Carson, Gardena and Inglewood.