Central Coast Community Health Centers to Receive $11.6 Million

Source: Office of Rep. Carbajal

[On Thursday], Rep. Salud Carbajal announced that three Central Coast Community Health Centers will receive a total of $11.6 million in American Rescue Plan funds to expand their COVID-19 vaccination and treatment operations. The resources are part of the American Rescue Plan’s investments to expand access to vaccines in underserved communities.

Central Coast-based federal community health centers receiving funds:

American Indian Health & Services: $1,517,875
Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics: $4,911,875
County of Santa Barbara: $5,210,375

“Our community health centers have been key partners in keeping our community safe and healthy during the pandemic. I was proud to cast my vote for the American Rescue Plan, which makes crucial investments to expand vaccine distribution,” said Rep. Carbajal. “I’m glad to see over $11 million dollars will be used to enhance our ability to get vaccines into the arms of Central Coast residents as quickly, equitably, and effectively as possible.”

Last week, the Biden Administration announced it will make a $6 billion investment in Community Health Centers, using American Rescue Plan funds, to expand access to vaccines in underserved communities. The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), will provide funding starting in April to nearly 1,400 centers across the country. Community Health Centers serve 1 in 5 people living in rural communities. More than 91% of health center patients are individuals or families living at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines and more than 60% are racial or ethnic minorities.

The health centers can use the funding to expand COVID-19 vaccinations, testing and treatment for vulnerable populations; deliver preventive and primary health care services to people at higher risk for COVID-19; and expand health centers’ operational capacity during the pandemic and beyond, including modifying and improving physical infrastructure and adding mobile units.

A complete list of Community Health Centers receiving these funds can be found here.