Congressman Dennis Cardoza
18th Congressional District of California

WASHINGTON – Congressman Dennis Cardoza announced today that Eastern Merced County has been selected to receive support from the California Endowment through its Building Healthy Communities program.

Merced was one of 14 communities selected for the 10-year effort that aims to improve the health and wellness of Californians.

The California Endowment is a statewide health foundation that has existed since 1996. The foundation partners with grassroots organizations, private business and local governments in its efforts to improve health across the state.

“I have long been an advocate for improving health care in the Central Valley,” said Congressman Cardoza. “I could not be more pleased to see Merced County selected for such a noble and valuable effort. I will continue to provide any assistance I can to the Endowment.”

Under the foundation’s new Building Healthy Communities program, it will work with government, school districts, planning boards, business and other sectors to improve health by funding programs and partnerships that focus on prevention, integration and improve health systems. Although Merced has been selected, the program remains in the planning phases.

“Though this region has many challenges, The California Endowment recognizes that East Merced has the potential to make meaningful changes that will result in improved community health,” the California Endowment said of its selection.