TUCSON— Today, Rep. Raúl M. Grijalva announced the inclusion of $2.5 million in funding for Clinica Amistad, Pima Community College, JobPath, Inc., and the Pascua Yaqui Tribe in the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Appropriations bill.
“Investing in a better future for our communities after the COVID-19 pandemic starts with strong investments in education and health,” said Rep. Raúl M. Grijalva. “From job training programs to health services upgrades, I’m proud to have secured $2.5 million in this bill for organizations and tribes helping to expand opportunities and services for Southern Arizona. These projects reflect the needs of our community. I will keep fighting to get these projects past the finish line and into the final bill.”
Pima Community College will receive $1 million for the purchase of needed equipment for the Flexible Industry Training (FIT) Lab, PCC’s new Center for Excellence in Applied Technology, a partnership with local businesses and industries to upskill current workers with new skills for the 21st Century economy.
“The FIT Lab will be an exciting component of PCC’s new Center of Excellence in Applied Technology, where the College will partner with business and industry to train and upscale employees with the necessary skills to compete for 21st century jobs,” said Pima Community College Chancellor Lee Lambert. “It will be a space for innovation and collaboration, and will give employers the opportunity to work together with the College to train workers on the latest advanced manufacturing equipment.”
JobPath, Inc. will receive $500,000 to enroll 200 recently displaced workers in job training programs with a focus on women and parents.
“JobPath has been supporting under-resourced Pima County residents through education and training programs for over 20 years,” said JobPath CEO Anna Greif. “COVID-19 has significantly altered the workforce landscape in Pima County, and JobPath’s role in social and economic recovery cannot be understated. With JobPath graduates earning an average of nearly $50,000 upon program completion, we have demonstrated that investing in JobPath positively impacts local families and our local economy. We are incredibly grateful to have moved forward in the funding process, and we look forward to the impact this opportunity could provide.”
The Pascua Yaqui Tribe will receive $900,000 for their San Ignacio Health Center for major building renovations to provide readily available services in social work, health care, food and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) distribution, and additional senior care.
“I am filled with gratitude, hope and serenity today and take this opportunity to thank Chairman Grijalva for his unwavering support for the Pascua Yaqui Tribe. The congressional funding for the Old Pascua Reservation, which was included in the House Appropriations Bill, honors the past and signals that the path forward we have forged together as sovereign nations is built on trust, respect and mutual understanding,” said Chairman Peter Yucupicio.
Clinica Amistad will receive $185,000 for much-needed equipment updates that include exam tables, EKG and ultrasound machines, and a new vehicle that will allow them to expand at-home services.
“Clinica Amistad, a Project of Amistad y Salud is so honored to be included in this bill. This assistance will further help fulfill our mission; to provide free primary health care, preventative services, and education to those in need and without access to health care. Clínica Amistad, stands as an example of success as we continue to care for their patients; the low income, uninsured and underserved, working poor, of southern Arizona,” said Larry Jagnow, Board President.
“Clínica Amistad treats the most vulnerable individuals in our community, helping the community as a whole to stay healthier and safer. Being included in this bill means the world to the clinic and to our patients,” said Nicole Glasner, Executive Director for Development.
Rep. Grijalva submitted numerous Community Funding Projects requests to the Appropriations Committee. Rep. Grijalva will continue working to ensure this funding is included in the final bill.
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