70 Years of Health in Our Community!

This year, Beach Cities Health District (BCHD) is celebrating 70 years of service to the residents of Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach. Since 1955, BCHD has grown from a small local hospital into one of the most innovative preventive health agencies in the country, with more than 40 programs, services and facilities that support residents at every stage of life.

A Legacy of Care

BCHD began as South Bay Hospital in 1955, providing essential medical care close to home for more than four decades. When the hospital closed in 1998, BCHD reimagined its mission and became one of California’s first preventive health districts. That shift changed our focus from just treating illness to making residents healthier by promoting wellness, prevention and community well-being.

Youth Programs

Investing in the health of young people has always been a priority. In 2007, the LiveWell Kids program introduced gardening, nutrition and mindfulness into local elementary schools and helped spark a dramatic drop in youth obesity, particularly in Redondo Beach. In 2022, BCHD opened allcove Beach Cities, a unique youth wellness center that offers mental health care, peer support and safe, welcoming spaces for people ages 12 to 25. Together, these programs and others continue to give young residents the tools to build resilience and lifelong healthy habits.

Healthy Living for All Ages

BCHD’s vision of a healthy beach community extends beyond the classroom. With community initiatives such as the Blue Zones Project, BCHD has helped reshape everyday environments so that healthy choices are easier in schools, workplaces, restaurants and neighborhoods. Residents of every age take part in fitness classes, mindfulness programs, cooking workshops and community events that bring people together around health and well-being.

Supporting Older Adults

As needs have changed over time, BCHD has expanded its services for older adults. Care Management, errand support, meal delivery and transportation programs allow seniors to remain independent while staying safe and connected to the community.

image of an elderly woman and young woman looking happy

Meeting Challenges

BCHD has always been ready when the community needed it most. During the COVID-19 pandemic, BCHD coordinated testing and vaccines, provided meal deliveries and ran errands for vulnerable residents. That same spirit of service has guided BCHD for seven decades.

Powered by People

BCHD is built on the dedication of its people. Each year more than a thousand volunteers give their time and energy, contributing over a million dollars in service value. Their commitment, combined with the work of BCHD staff and partners, makes a lasting difference in the Beach Cities.

Looking Ahead

Seventy years is an important milestone, but our mission remains the same. BCHD continues to work toward a healthy beach community by creating programs, partnerships and spaces that help every resident live well. With the support of our community, we look forward to building on this legacy for decades to come.