Rep. Aguilar Announces Nearly $730,000 for El Sol Neighborhood Educational Center to Improve the Health and Well-Being of Inland Empire Residents

El Sol will use the grant to teach and connect people to healthcare

SAN BERNARDINO, CA - Today, Rep. Pete Aguilar (CA-33) announced a $728,610 federal grant for El Sol Neighborhood Educational Center to hire more Community Health Workers and reach more people in the Inland Empire who need help finding healthcare and social resources.

El Sol's health workers build trust with residents, teach them about their health in ways that match their culture and language, figure out their health needs and find the right doctors and care. Additionally, health workers connect people to basic needs support like housing, food assistance, domestic violence shelters, transportation, Medicare, Medi-Cal and more.

"Everyone deserves to find a doctor that's right for them or get help with food, housing and other needs," said Rep. Pete Aguilar. "El Sol's Community Health Workers help build a bridge between our neighbors and the healthcare and support they need. This grant will bring more of these workers to our communities so that people in the Inland Empire can be healthy, happy and successful."

"This federal investment recognizes the vital role that community-based organizations play in reaching people where they are and building trust where it matters most," said Alexander Fajardo, Executive Director, El Sol Neighborhood Educational Center. "At El Sol, we will use these resources to strengthen our community health worker workforce and expand our ability to connect individuals and families with health education, resources, and support. When we invest in trusted community organizations, we invest directly in the health and well-being of our communities."

This funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Mental Health & Substance Abuse Service Grants.