Delivering Whole-person Care and Resources to Ward 7 residents.

A frustrated Medicaid participant walked through the doors of the MedStar Family Choice Community Wellness Center in Washington, D.C., seeking help with the online patient portal. Three hours later, she left with connections to case management services, access to her health records and a renewed sense of hope.

“When she arrived, she felt overwhelmed and unsure where to turn,” says Xavier Russell, associate vice president of growth and member experience at MedStar Family Choice, who assisted her during the visit. “By the time she left, she had answers, support and a plan. She told us she finally felt seen and supported—and that’s exactly why this center exists.”

Her experience captures what Jocelyn Chisholm Carter, president of MedStar Family Choice, envisioned when planning to open the Community Wellness Center’s doors in 2025: a welcoming neighborhood hub where D.C. residents enrolled in Medicaid can access support for their health and wellbeing.

Located in Ward 7, east of the Anacostia River, the Community Wellness Center serves Medicaid-eligible individuals participating in D.C. Healthy Families or D.C. Healthcare Alliance programs. Before the center opened, many Medicaid participants had to travel outside their neighborhoods for care. With services now closer to home, the center reduces transportation barriers and fosters stronger connections within a community that has historically experienced limited access.

The Community Wellness Center takes a holistic approach to health, recognizing it extends beyond the doctor's office. Eligible participants join fitness classes, cooking and nutrition workshops, diabetes management programs, smoking cessation support, and more. The center engages younger participants in hands-on programming that fosters healthy habits and practical skills, such as food safety, healthy meal preparation, and career exploration. Free on-site internet access gives participants the tools they need to find information, connect with services and stay informed.

Equally important is the center’s focus on social factors that shape health. Outreach coordinators, case managers and social workers provide in-person support to help participants navigate housing resources, legal assistance, financial literacy classes, and parenting support groups. Food and housing insecurities are the most common challenges faced by individuals who visit the center.

"Our Wellness Center allows participants to benefit from practical, skills-based workshops that not only teach, but also connect them to resources," says Russell. "We combine health education with financial and social support, so the center can address both medical and social needs."

Partnerships with local organizations—such as United Planning Organization, the Places of Worship Advisory Board, AppleTree Kids Corner, and the East of the River Family Strengthening Collaborative, Inc.—have expanded the center's reach and programming. Events include maternal health programs, men's health initiatives and community resource roundtables. Participants also learn about the center through partner organizations, along with local publications, social media, and targeted text messages. In 2025, the center welcomed more than 350 participants for various programs, activities and resources.

The coming year promises even more opportunities at the Community Wellness Center. Plans include youth wellness camps and intergenerational programs connecting seniors with families. The center also plans to offer expanded workshops focused on hypertension, asthma management and healthy aging.

Starting in 2026, MedStar Family Choice will launch the Healthy D.C. plan to serve residents who may not qualify for Medicaid due to their income. The center aims to grow as a vital community resource for an even broader population of D.C. residents.

“This center was designed to support the whole person,” says Jocelyn Chisholm Carter, president of MedStar Family Choice. “By offering guidance, resources and a sense of connection, we’re helping residents take charge of their health and navigate life’s challenges with confidence.”