CHICANO FEDERATION OPENS NEW RESOURCE CENTER IN NORTH PARK
The nonprofit Chicano Federation recently opened a new community resource center to help families apply to much needed programs and services. The new center is at the organization’s headquarters in North Park.
“Anything the community needs, we want to be here to help them,” said Liz Ramírez, the Chicano Federation’s new CEO.
Families can ask for assistance to apply for or access services, such as child care, food resources, affordable health, immigration and educational services. Workshops will also be held on-site monthly.
The center wants to create a network of organizations that provide services for the community. “If we don’t have the service within Chicano Federation, we can refer them with another organization,” Ramírez said.
Funding for the new center comes in part from the UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of California. Months ago, Chicano Federation was one of 17 local organizations to receive assistance from the health care and insurance company, as part of an effort to improve health equity in San Diego.
“There are many challenges that San Diego communities are facing. These challenges disproportionately impact underserved communities and communities
of color. We understand that the path to sustainable
solutions is best achieved through building community relationships with outstanding organizations whose missions closely align with ours such as Chicano Federation,” Kevin Kandalaft, CEO, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of California said in a statement.
Each year, Chicano Federation helps more than 25,000 families, Ramírez estimated. With the new center, the organization hopes to reach more people.
María, 70, and Roberto Corral, 74, are one of many families who had received assistance from Chicano Federation.
Seven years ago, their rent rose as high as $1,500 a month. Since Roberto had to retire early due to an accident, it was impossible for them to cover the cost of housing. They even considered moving to Rosarito with family members.
María recalled that at the time someone gave them Chicano Federation’s number. After meeting with representatives of the organization, they were offered affordable housing in Barrio Logan as part of the group’s family housing programs. “It changed our lives,” María said.
The community resource center is at 3180 University Ave. Suite 110, San Diego. It is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (619) 285-5600.