33-Year-Old La Grande Affaire Supports Neighborhood Hospital

         Since 1887 Dignity Heath – California Hospital Medical Center at Grand and Venice has been a part of the South Park neighborhood. For the last 33 years, the hospital has raised money at its annual La Grande Affaire event to advance the care provided to the community. This year’s event will be held on Saturday, October 10 beginning at 6 pm at the JW Marriott at LA Live. For details - https://www.supportcaliforniahospital.org/La-Grande-Affaire.

         The money raised this year (100%) will support the Health Equity Fund which is a donor-supported fund to ensure the most vulnerable community members receive medical and other services. The fund is used for initiatives regarding human trafficking, homelessness, mental/behavioral services, creating healthier communities, and training caregivers, all  areas that need support.

         Human trafficking, for example, is an often-overlooked problem because it is hidden and rarely seen. But it is a problem, “Los Angeles County is one of the highest intensity child exploitation areas in the country. Human trafficking is happening everywhere in our communities and does not discriminate against ethnicity, gender, and age nor does it take into consideration immigration or socioeconomic status,” according to the L.A. County website. One place where human trafficking is uncovered is in emergency rooms. California Hospital has trained personnel to identify potential victims and procedures for intervention. These efforts need continued funding.

         California Hospital’s Bridge Program to provide services for those with mental health and substance abuse problems is staffed with “navigators” to determine a patient’s needs, find the resources to help the patient, and prevent readmission because the support services are in place. Again, these efforts need continued funding. And there are more initiatives needing funding as well.

         While La Grande Affaire will be a wonderful black-tie evening with a reception,  tasting station, and silent auction followed by a three-course culinary experience and a live auction, most importantly the money raised will be a benefit for our neighborhood and our city.

         Mark October 19 on your calendar. Become a sponsor. Attend the event. Support our neighborhood hospital. https://www.supportcaliforniahospital.org/La-Grande-Affaire.

By Debra Shrout