YAKIMA, Wash. — The Yakima Valley Farmworkers Clinic (YVFC) has been a staple in Yakima for nearly 50 years.
Originating as a small plywood shack on the east end of Toppenish, the YVFC has expanded to over 40 locations across Washington and Oregon, treating approximately 180,000 patients.
The clinic began its mission to provide care to migrant and seasonal farm workers and their families with only three doctors: Dr. Monahan, Dr. Gargas, and Dr. Rickling.
Peter Monahan, a Spanish professor at Yakima Valley College, recalls the dedication of his father, Dr. Paul Monahan, who was one of the founding doctors.
“There’s no question he was wholly devoted to his mission in life to serve others and was totally committed to it,” Peter Monahan said. “And I think it influenced all of us in our family to give back to the community and provide that service to be committed to leaving the world a better place than we found it.”
The clinic’s impact stretches through multiple communities with 27 locations across Washington, offering medical, dental, and behavioral health clinics in areas such as Walla Walla, Kennewick, and Sunnyside. The YVFC employs over 1,500 medical workers and continues to help these communities in numerous ways.
Peter Monahan applauded the clinic’s continued involvement in the community.
“You see them involved in so many aspects of our daily life… It’s very laudable what the Yakima Valley Farmers Clinic is today,” says Monahan.
Monahan said he takes pride in seeing the community he grew up in continue to receive support and appreciates being part of this legacy through his work at the Yakima Valley College.