Congresswoman Nikema Williams Introduces Legislation to Help Black Churches Address Health Disparities
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) introduced the Health Access Innovation Act (HAIA) legislation that would establish a new grant program, administered by the HHS Office of Minority Health, to expand access to culturally and linguistically appropriate care, encourage innovation, and address persistent health disparities and chronic disease challenges. Specifically, the HAIA provides funds to faith- and community-based organizations to pay the costs of necessary medical services, support health care professionals, such as community health workers, peer support specialists, and other professionals who support access to care and carry out programs that address social determinants of health. Congresswoman Clarke (NY-09) co-led the introduction of the Health Access Innovation Act in the House of Representatives, along with Senator Gillibrand (NY-D) leading introduction in the Senate.
During the COVID-19 Pandemic, Black churches played an important role in providing information, tests and vaccinations to their communities. Seeing as Black Americans died at higher rates than other demographics, local clergy have been using their pulpits to mobilize their communities against the virus. No one understands the needs of a community like those who live there, so empowering local organizations with critical resources will improve health outcomes for working families and reduce the disparities that they face.
Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) said:
“Too many families still struggle to get the care they need in the neighborhoods they call home. The Health Access Innovation Act begins to invest in a key solution to the crisis of access to care, putting resources directly in the hands of faith and community-based organizations that people already know and trust. Whether it is a church that stepped up during the height of COVID-19 or a non-profit that opens its doors to provide routine care, these local leaders are on the frontlines of addressing health disparities. Providing the resources to expand care helps us ensure working families can lead healthier lives–no matter their ZIP code or bank account.”
“Time and time again, we have seen proof that the most effective health solutions are those that originate at the local level. As we continue the necessary work of bridging the disparities that have long harmed minority lives and remain focused on initiatives that directly address health equity, I am proud to once again co-lead this essential effort alongside Rep. Williams,” said Congresswoman Clarke (NY-09). “Community and faith-based organizations know the progress their own neighbors need, because they are already working day-in and day-out to deliver it to them. This new grant funding within our legislation will enable solutions centered in trust, understanding, and an unwavering commitment to creating the best possible health outcomes, and I look forward to seeing it signed into law.”
“Far too many New Yorkers are unable to access the health care they need,” said Senator Gillibrand (NY-D). “Trusted community and faith-based organizations play a vital role in helping to fill these gaps, providing the services that build healthier communities and helping to address racial disparities in health outcomes. I am proud to lead the Health Access Innovation Act with Congresswoman Williams to ensure these institutions have the resources they need to continue doing this critical work.”
“The Health Access Innovation Act is a transformative step in ensuring that trusted community and faith-based organizations like ours can continue to deliver life-saving care to communities that need it most,” said Rev. Kimberly L. Williams, President & CEO of Choose Healthy Life. “This legislation empowers us all to expand our reach and deepen our impact, and we are profoundly grateful to Senator Gillibrand and Congresswoman Williams for their leadership.”
Read the one-pager on the bill here.
Read the full legislation here.