What We Do

The Many Ways CARES Brings Comfort and Support

CARES offers a wide range of programs designed to support patients, families, and the broader community. From our child care services and holiday gift drives to food distributions and literacy programs, CARES is committed to bringing comfort and care in many forms.

We also empower the community through work-study and job training opportunities for teens and adults. These programs help participants explore career paths and pursue educational goals. CARES provides hands-on training for high school and college students, CalWORKs participants, City and County Summer Youth workers, After-School Employment Programs, and the Senior Employment Training Program.

Child and Family Program

At the heart of CARES’ work is the Child and Family Program, proudly operating two Child Care Centers that support the needs of working families and their children.

How We Help

Each day, thousands of community members enter Los Angeles General Medical Center—whether to receive care themselves or to support a loved one in need. For many, limited financial means and a lack of child care options leave them with no choice but to bring their children along.

That’s where the CARES Child and Family Program steps in as a vital resource, offering a safe and supportive environment for children while their families focus on medical care and healing.

CARES Child Care Center offers a broad range of services free of charge:

A literature-based curriculum including math, science, art, language, and plenty of play
Healthy meals and snacks for the nutritional needs of the children
Parent education and psychological support to the children and their families in a culturally sensitive environment
Referrals for vision, speech, hearing, and immunization services when necessary
Many of the very needy families receive holiday gifts, school supplies, food, and clothing

Pediatric Reading Program & Lending Library

The Pediatric Reading Program and Lending Library offers a collection of books and magazines in both English and Spanish, thoughtfully selected to meet the interests and needs of young patients—whether they are inpatients or outpatients.

Materials are available on the pediatric inpatient floor and in waiting areas throughout the hospital, providing children with a comforting and enriching distraction during their stay or visit. Children are encouraged to enjoy the books by browsing on their own, reading independently, or listening as someone reads aloud.

This program brings moments of joy, learning, and comfort to children during what can often be a difficult time.

Food Distributions

In partnership with the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, CARES hosts two free food distributions each month at Los Angeles General Medical Center.

Through the CARES Mobile Food Pantry and Walk-Up Food Distribution, patients and community members receive nutritious foods such as fresh produce, chicken, canned goods, and other essential staples. These efforts help alleviate food insecurity and ensure that individuals and families have access to healthy, hearty meals—at no cost.

Shops

CARES operates two Gift Shops, a Coffee Bar, and a Thrift Shop, each offering quality items and friendly service.

What makes these shops special is that 100% of the proceeds go directly toward programs that support patients at Los Angeles General Medical Center—helping to fund vital services, comfort initiatives, and community resources.

CARES Awards and Achievements

In January 2000, the LAC+USC Healthcare Network received the Foster B. McGaw prize from the American Hospital Association in Washington D.C. with the CARES Child & Family Program listed as one of the five outstanding community service programs for which the Foster McGaw Award was given.
Public Service Excellence Award for meeting whole family needs when adults face health care needs.
California Association of Public Hospitals Innovators Award
National Association of Counties Achievement Award
International Hospital Federations’ Aurthur Anderson/Dr. Ed Crosby International Award for Managerial Innovation
Commendations from the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors
Winner of the 17th Annual Hospital Award for Volunteer Excellence
Archdiocese of Los Angeles Youth Employment Programs Award of Excellence

Need Help?

For the many ways that the community may contribute funds or in-kind donations, contact the CARES Office at (323) 409-6941.

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