Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced today that Congress is set to give final approval for $150,000 to the Children’s Health Fund, providing the South Bronx Health Center for Children and Families with new programs and medical equipment. Senator Gillibrand aggressively lobbied members of the Appropriations Committee to include funding for the project in this year’s spending bill.
“As a mother of two young boys, I know how important it is for every parent to have access to the best possible health care a child needs. Access to state-of-the-art medical centers should be a right – not a privilege. This federal investment will provide Bronx families and children with the care they deserve,” Senator Gillibrand said.
The Bronx Health Center for Children and Families (SBHCCF) provides comprehensive medical care to an underserved community in one of the poorest neighborhoods in the country. The center offers accessible care regardless of patients’ insurance status and ability to pay. The SBHCCF also offers mental health and support, providing transportation and community service assistance. Funding will help create a comprehensive pediatric and adolescent health center that will offer a “one-stop” model where access to medical provider psychologist, social worker, and case manager can be obtained in one visit. Funding will also be used to help implement new programs and up-to-date technology.
The House and Senate have each passed their version of the appropriations bill, and today Senator Gillibrand announced that the funding was included in the final, combined version.