LOS ANGELES — The new center, operated by the South Los Angeles Community Development and Empowerment Corporation, will offer medical screenings, mental health group therapy, nutrition and cooking classes and referrals for treatment.  

The center is named after Biddy Mason (1818-1891), an African-American nurse, entrepreneur, philanthropist and founding member of the First African Methodist Episcopal Church. 

The center soft opened Sept. 29 on the eve of a possible government shutdown, which could affect the funding and services of many health care partners the center works with.