Hsi Lai Temple Partners with Medical Institutions to Provide Free Community Clinic

Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple
April 30, 2026

On April 11, Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple, in collaboration with University of the West (UWest), the UCLA Asian Pacific Health Care Venture, and the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, jointly hosted the “2026 Free Community Health Consultation Fair.” Upholding Humanistic Buddhism’s principle in “Benefiting society through charity,” the event provided accessible healthcare services to local residents.

The initiative brought together a wide network of medical and social service organizations across Southern California, including University of Southern California, AltaMed, Keiro, Chinatown Service Center, Little Tokyo Service Center, and the Mary S. Easton Center for Alzheimer’s Disease Research, among others. A total of 130 medical professionals and volunteers worked together to serve nearly 100 community members with free health screenings and consultations.

Services included blood glucose and liver function testing, distribution of COVID-19 rapid test kits, dental cleanings, simple extractions, and basic restorative care. In addition, attendees had access to mental health consultations, Alzheimer’s support services, traditional Chinese medicine guidance, and CPR training—addressing both physical and mental well-being.

During the opening ceremony, Hsi Lai Temple Abbot Venerable Hui Dong emphasized that the free clinic represents not only medical care but also the embodiment of compassion in action. He noted that the long-standing collaboration behind the event reflects deep and enduring partnerships, “like one family,” and expressed gratitude to UCLA APA Healthcare and student volunteers for their dedication to serving the community. He added that offering professional expertise to help others cultivates altruism, encouraging all to care for others and contribute to a harmonious society and ultimately world peace.

UWest President Minh-Hoa Ta highlighted the ongoing challenge faced by many in the community who lack health insurance. She noted that the joint effort between Hsi Lai Temple and the university aims to respond directly to these needs. Founded by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, UWest promotes accessible education grounded in compassion, character, and community engagement. Through initiatives like this, students are encouraged to give back to society. She concluded by thanking all participating partners and inviting the public to continue engaging with both the university and the temple.

The event mobilized nearly 100 healthcare professionals along with extensive equipment support. Meanwhile, the Buddha’s Light International Association Los Angeles Chapter, including volunteers from its San Gabriel Valley subchapters, contributed nearly 20 volunteers to assist with logistics, crowd flow, and event coordination.

As services concluded, attendees departed in an orderly manner, marking the successful completion of the health fair. Organizers stated that similar initiatives will continue in the future, integrating medical care with humanistic values to better serve community needs and strengthen local connections.