Rep. Doris Matsui Announces Over $870,000 for Local HIV Emergency Relief and Support Services

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, March 6, 2009

CONTACT: Alexis Marks or Mara Lee
(202) 225-7163

Rep. Doris Matsui Announces Over $870,000 for Local HIV Emergency Relief and Support Services
Reinforces Commitment to Sacramentans Living with HIV/AIDS

Today, Congresswoman Doris O. Matsui (CA - 05) announced that Sacramento will be receiving $870,775 in HIV Emergency Relief to help fund ambulatory health and support services in the Sacramento area.

"This grant helps those who need it most, and shows our commitment to helping those living with HIV/AIDS," said Rep. Matsui. "In addition to helping individual patients, this grant will also support Sacramento County's Department of Health and Human Services, and their ability to handle an increased demand for emergency medical care."

According to CARES, a Sacramento HIV health care center, an estimated 5,000 people in Sacramento County are living with HIV/AIDS. Nationwide, 1.2 million people live with HIV, a larger number than ever before.

The money provided through this grant is specifically targeted to Sacramentans who are living with HIV/AIDS, and are struggling because they may have lost their jobs and are unable to afford health care insurance amidst the national economic crisis. This grant will fund community-based emergency care and help expand the emergency services available to those in greatest need.

The funds were appropriated by the U.S. Department of Heath and Human Services and are designated to help the County of Sacramento's Department of Health and Human Services. The total amount of the grant awarded is $870,775.00 and will be distributed immediately.

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