On behalf of Pacific Clinics, we extend our deepest sympathies to the family, friends and colleagues of Ruth Schwartz, who passed away on March 26.

Ruth worked tirelessly for the most vulnerable residents of Los Angeles through Shelter Partnership, an organization she founded in 1985 to combat Los Angeles County homelessness.

During a special event 18 months ago, the Pacific Clinics Board of Directors and other agency stakeholders gathered to honor our long-term and coveted relationship with Shelter Partnership. On that occasion, we spoke of 30 years of receiving donated goods – valued at more than $2 million – from the Partnership. And, of course, we also spoke at length of Ruth Schwartz and her tireless and well-respected efforts to end homelessness in the region through a wide array of programs and services. She was a treasure to not only Pacific Clinics, but to our whole community.

Ruth's dedication to low-income housing development, policy and systems change was without equal throughout Southern California. Her passing leaves a huge – and irreplaceable - gap in visionary leadership to support efforts to end homelessness.

As we look to the future, please know that our partnership with Ruth and Shelter Partnership will not be forgotten and that we will continue to champion Ruth's legacy of commitment to the equity of all Los Angeles residents.

Read more about Shelter Partnership and Ruth's legacy.