Jordan Wellness Center reopens, restoring vital services to the community

Katherine Castro, a senior at Jordan High School and a member of the Student Advisory Board.

The Jordan Wellness Center at Jordan High School in Watts was officially reopened by UMMA (University Muslim Medical Association) this past August, marking a milestone for the school and the community. After being closed due to challenges that came with the pandemic, the Wellness Center is back in operation, offering essential health services to students, families, and community members.

At the reopening ceremony, Katherine Castro, a senior at Jordan High School and a member of our Student Advisory Board shared her journey as a student advocate. “Today is such a proud moment for me, and it’s right up there with one of my best experiences—advocating for this Wellness Center,” Katherine said in her speech. She recounted how she and other students worked with school leadership to address the need for high-quality healthcare services in the area. “Many people around here don’t have access to healthcare services, and we knew how important it was to push for this Wellness Center to open.”

Katherine also highlighted the specific needs this center will meet for students, such as having access to physical checkups without needing to leave campus and providing contraceptives in a trusted space. “Many students don’t know where to go, can’t afford them, or feel uncomfortable asking their parents,” she explained, emphasizing the critical role the center will play.

The L.A. Trust is incredibly proud of Katherine’s leadership and advocacy in pushing for the reopening of this vital resource for her school and community. Her determination and hard work exemplify the power of student voices in bringing about real change.

Katherine Castro with LAUSD Superintendent Alberto Carvalho.

The center’s reopening is a celebration of returning services but also a much-needed lifeline for the community. Watts has long been underserved, with limited access to healthcare providers. Superintendent Alberto Carvalho, Congresswoman Maxine Waters, and UMMA Community Clinic CEO Adel Syed joined local leaders to commemorate the occasion, stressing the importance of the clinic in addressing health challenges that often prevent students from fully participating in their education.

The newly reopened center offers a wide range of services, including physicals, behavioral health support, and dental care. With an expected 1,000 patients per month, the clinic will serve both students and community members, fostering a sense of trust and support.

“This reopening represents a crucial step in our commitment to bridging the gap in healthcare access for students and families in underserved areas,” said Maryjane Puffer, Executive Director of The Los Angeles Trust for Children’s Health. “The Jordan Wellness Center will once again be a trusted resource where students can thrive, knowing they have the care they need right on their school campus.”

The Jordan Wellness Center is once again poised to provide a safe and trusted space for the people of Watts, ensuring that healthcare is accessible to those who need it most.