Sen. Kennedy Helps Open New Free Clinic Quarters

Calling it “an example for our fellow citizens throughout the country,” Sen. Edward M. Kennedy (D-Mass.) cut the ribbon Monday at the dedication ceremony for the Los Angeles Free Clinic’s new headquarters.

The $2.3-million building at 8405 Beverly Blvd., funded entirely with private money, will enable the clinic to double its services. The center, the nation’s oldest no-cost medical care facility, receives private and public funding.

It handled 32,000 cases last year and has a staff of 450 volunteers.

“This is what our hundreds of volunteers have hoped for, dreamed about and worked toward since our founding 23 years ago,” said Mimi West, co-chairwoman of the building fund campaign.