Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) announced community health centers in Western New York will receive over $3.5 million in federal funding.  The funding, awarded to Community Health Center of Buffalo and Neighborhood Health Center, is provided through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

“Community Health Center of Buffalo and Neighborhood Health Center have served on the frontline in the battle against COVID,” said Congressman Higgins. “From educating the public to testing and reaching out to the community through mobile sites and tele-health, our health centers play an integral role in keeping Western New Yorkers healthy and safe in traditional times and especially now, during the pandemic.”

Community Health Center of Buffalo, with locations in Buffalo, Niagara Falls, Cheektowaga and Lockport, will receive $1,715,596 in this round of funding. 

Dr. LaVonne Ansari, CEO of the Community Health Center of Buffalo said, “We are grateful for these continued dollars as they enable us to fight, serve and advocate for our underserved communities, particularly during Covid-19 and throughout this pandemic.  We appreciate Congressman Higgins continued commitment to federally qualified health centers.” 

Neighborhood Health Center, which operates healthcare facilities in Buffalo, Blasdell and Hamburg, has been awarded $1,809,352.

"The role that community health centers play in public health is crucial in ensuring an effective COVID-19 response," said Joanne Haefner, Chief Executive Officer of Neighborhood Health Center. "As we are currently in the midst of a very concerning second wave, our role in establishing health equity at this critical time is imperative. We remain especially grateful for this funding which will strengthen our impact in our communities of highest concern and assure our commitment in keeping our loved ones healthy and safe," added Joanne.   

The Health Resources & Services Administration estimates that the 1,079 Federally Qualified Health Centers across the U.S. provide accessible, affordable, primary care to approximately 30 million Americans. The model for comprehensive, direct care is leading to better outcomes for patients. 

For more information or to make an appointment visit Community Health Center of Buffalo at: https://chcb.net/ or Neighborhood Health Center at: https://nhcwny.org/.