In service to our patients, we bring the best of what science and human compassion dictate.
Years of service: 46 years
Their story: Since 1974, Santa Cruz Community Health has been committed to health care as a human right by providing high-quality primary care to all people, regardless of income or circumstance. Their mission remains constant: to improve the health of patients and the community and advocate the feminist goals of social, political, and economic equality. What started as a Women’s Health Collective founded by a group of students from UCSC has — over nearly five decades — evolved to keep pace with the rapidly changing health care landscape. They now operate two clinics: the downtown Women’s Health Center and the East Cliff Family Health Center in Live Oak.
Fundraising focus: They are currently investing in an unprecedented capital development in the heart of Live Oak. Along with Dientes and MidPen Affordable Housing, they will develop 3.6 acres at 1500 Capitola Road to include a 20,000 square foot primary care clinic, an 11-chair dental clinic, and 57 units of affordable housing. The goal is to break ground in April of 2021 and open in the summer of 2022. For more information: www.1500capitolaroad.org Free fresh, food distribution occurs every Wednesday from 3-4:30 at the East Cliff Family Health Center (21507 East Cliff Drive in the East Cliff Village Shopping Center). All are welcome, no proof of income required thanks to a partnership with the Second Harvest Food Bank.
Leslie became executive director of the Santa Cruz Women’s Health Center in 2011 and led the opening of the new East Cliff Family Health Center in Live Oak in 2014. Together, both clinics comprise the Santa Cruz Community Health Centers, a nonprofit providing comprehensive primary and behavioral health care, pediatrics, health education, outreach, enrollment, and other services to 11,000 Santa Cruz County residents, including some 800 individuals who are homeless.