Schiff Helps Secure Funds to Expand Health Care for Low-Income Families

Schiff Helps Secure Funds to Expand Health Care for Low-Income Families

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the House passed the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act (H.R. 3293), which included funding Rep. Schiff helped secure for two non-profit health care service providers in the 29th Congressional District.  The funding will help provide critical health care services to local residents.  

“During tough economic times like these, many parents struggle to afford health care for their kids and for themselves,” said Schiff.  “These funds will help provide a small patch to help those in need, while we in Congress work to overhaul our health care system to ensure all citizens receive the care they need.”

The Community Health Alliance of Pasadena (CHAP) will receive $100,000 for its Education & Counseling Center.  The funds will be used to renovate space at the Center and provide an alternative to hospital emergency room usage by families who lack the financial means to pay for health services.  The center provides individual counseling, group support and education to low income families. There are more than 200,000 residents in CHAP's primary service area which covers Pasadena, Altadena and Sierra Madre.  It is estimated that about one-in-four residents lack health insurance, with many living below the poverty level. 

“Federal support for the CHAP Education and Counseling Center will positively impact the overall health of our community’s low-income, uninsured and unemployed residents, said Margaret B. Martinez, CEO of CHAP.  “The integration of behavioral health services with primary medical care will help our chronically ill patients better manage their conditions.”

The bill also includes $100,000 for Young and Healthy to help fund mental health care for uninsured children.  The funds will help provide comprehensive direct mental health services to low-income school children throughout Pasadena and its surrounding communities.  The money will also provide school-based counseling and support groups, on-site counseling, in-service training for teachers, parent education, and consultation with teachers and school principals. 

“We see a growing need for access to health care services among children and families in this economy.  As people lose their jobs, they often find themselves without health insurance.  This funding is coming at the right time to help needy families and children,” said Mary Donnelly-Crocker, Executive Director, Young and Healthy.

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