The Los Angeles LGBT Center received an $80,000 grant to help Californians enroll in Medi-Cal and other programs.
The grant was generously given by Health Net to broader its commitment to support communities during the national pandemic. The Los Angeles LGBT Center is one of 24 organizations statewide that received funding totaling $1.95 million dedicated to keeping the safety net strong for those most at-risk.
“The Los Angeles LGBT Center is the nation’s largest and most experienced provider of LGBT health and mental health services, and we will continue to help those who need us the most, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Center CEO Lorri L. Jean. “Thanks to Health Net, we will be able to assist the uninsured and underinsured in accessing our quality health care so that they may lead healthier, happier lives.”
As one of California’s largest and most experienced managed care plans, Health Net is committed to ensuring underserved residents have access to quality care. By increasing Medi-Cal enrollment, education and retention support, providers and community organizations are able to better care for those most impacted by the pandemic.
“The ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have underscored the importance of improving the health and well-being for the LGBTQ+ community, who continue to face widespread disparities,” said Amanda McAllister-Wallner, Director of the LGBTQ Health and Human Services Network. “With this grant, the LA LGBT Center will have additional resources to help ensure that the LGBTQ+ community in Los Angeles County has access to affordable, quality health care through Medi-Cal—taking us another step forward in closing this gap.”
“Data shows that a large number of Californians that are eligible for Medi-Cal aren’t applying for benefits. You wouldn’t expect that in the midst of a pandemic,” said Brian Ternan, President and CEO of Health Net of California and California Health & Wellness. “Our community partners will use these grants to find and enroll newly-eligible people. With Medi-Cal coverage, California’s most vulnerable populations can receive the quality health care they deserve.”
This series of grants is part of Health Net’s Community & Infrastructure Investment Program, which has dedicated more than $65 million to bridge the divide in access, equity and quality of care across California. The Center also received a $100,000 grant at the onset of the COVID -19 pandemic, which enabled them to expand their telehealth capacity, ensure safe continuity of care and meet patient needs.
