Simi Valley’s Free Clinic delivers essential medical, dental, and legal services thanks to volunteers and community donations
(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) – The Free Clinic of Simi Valley changes lives every single day. What many people don’t realize is that the doctors, dentists, lawyers, and counselors who donate their time here are the same professionals who serve the broader Simi Valley community. They bring with them the same level of care, expertise, and respect—regardless of whether their patient can pay.
Located at 2003 Royal Avenue, the Free Clinic has been a trusted community resource since 1971. It offers medical, dental, legal, and counseling services at no cost to those in need. This all-in-one model allows people to address a range of issues—physical, mental, or legal—without having to navigate multiple systems or providers.
All of the clinic’s services are made possible by volunteers: licensed professionals who step up to offer their time and talent. Some are retired, others maintain private practices or work in hospitals, but they all share a commitment to making healthcare and support services accessible to everyone.
Fred Bauermeister, a founding member and the clinic’s longtime executive director, has been instrumental in building and sustaining that vision. Under his leadership, the Free Clinic has not only expanded its core services but also added others such as tattoo removal, physical therapy, and ophthalmology. Bauermeister said the clinic is always busy and always has a waiting list. “We couldn’t do what we do without the support of the community,” he said.
The clinic operates without government funding. Instead, it relies on grants, local donations, and community-led fundraisers. This model means every dollar raised goes directly toward helping people—stocking the pharmacy, maintaining equipment, or keeping the lights on.
Clinic hours vary by service and are updated weekly on their website. Medical and dental services are offered Monday through Friday. Legal services are currently available two Tuesdays and two Wednesdays per month. Counseling services and other specialty care are provided by appointment. All services require an appointment, and hours may vary depending on volunteer availability.
To make an appointment, patients are encouraged to call during regular operating hours. For the most current schedule and service information, visit freeclinicsv.com or call (805) 522-3733.
In addition to direct services, the Free Clinic supports the broader nonprofit ecosystem in Ventura County. The clinic serves as a hub for six other community organizations, all housed under the same roof: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County, For the Need Foundation, Soaring Spirits International, Sarah’s House, Coalition for Family Harmony, Community Action of Ventura County, and SEWA Food Pantry.
Free clinics like this one play a critical role in underserved communities. According to the American College of Physicians, there are over 1,400 free medical clinics and pharmacies across the United States providing care to those who might otherwise go without. These clinics are often placed in areas with limited access to traditional healthcare, helping to reduce transportation barriers and offering an alternative to emergency rooms for basic needs.
The Free Clinic of Simi Valley exemplifies this mission, serving as a local answer to a national issue. Its all-volunteer model, comprehensive services, and community-supported structure make it a rare and vital resource—especially in a time when affordable healthcare remains out of reach for many.
The Free Clinic depends entirely on the generosity of individuals, local organizations, and grant funding. Every contribution helps keep vital services running and accessible to those who need them most. To make a donation or learn more about how to support the clinic, visit freeclinicsv.com/donate.
At its core, the Free Clinic of Simi Valley is about community—about people showing up for one another. And in doing so, it continues to prove that compassion, respect, and quality care should never be out of reach.
