This year, National Health Center Week (NHCW) was celebrated on August 11 – 17. The purpose of NHCW is to raise public awareness about the value of Community Health Centers and their mission to provide affordable and accessible health care to medically vulnerable and underserved populations throughout the nation. There are events throughout the second week of August dedicated to the services and contributions of Community, Migrant, Homeless and Public Housing Health Centers. This year’s NHCW theme was “Celebrating America’s Health Centers: Transforming Health Care in Our Local Communities,” and there were several local events that took place:

  • LifeLong Medical Care hosted two Affordable Care Act Townhall Meetings as part of their campaign to raise awareness about the mission and accomplishments of America’s Health Centers as local solutions for affordable and accessible health care.
  • Tiburcio Vasquez Health Center hosted a free community health and resource fair where they invited people to come out and receive free basic medical services, enjoy fun activities for kids, and learn more about community resources and health care reform.
  • The Alameda Health Consortium and Community Health Center Network hosted their annual Clinic Appreciation Awards & Dinner to honor Community Health Centers for the hard work and commitment they devote to meeting the health care needs of our patients on a daily basis. Congressman Eric Swalwell joined us this year to give special remarks and recognize member health centers for their achievements. The evening included a raffle for clinic employees and, in tribute to Michele Obama’s “Let’s Move” initiative, a group dance to Psy’s “Gangnam Style.”
  • Tri-City Health Center hosted a Community Awards Breakfast & Fundraiser where they honored three outstanding patients who showed excellent management of their health this past year. Assembly Member Bob Wieckowski, who represents the 25th District, was also presented with an award in honor of National Health Center Week for his outstanding commitment to public health care and continued efforts towards improving community programs.

Now is the time to start preparing for next year’s festivities; the countdown to National Health Center Week 2014, August 10 – 16, has officially begun!