One of the most common questions we’ve been answering lately is “How can I help besides give money?” Whether you aren’t able to give financially at all or have given and just want to do more, we are so grateful for your support. And the next biggest impact you can make is by advocating for local, state, and especially federal funding and support of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) like Salud Family Health.
FQHCs are vital to ensuring all Coloradans have access to affordable, quality healthcare. As we face unprecedented financial challenges, your voice can make a significant impact by reaching out to your federal and state representatives.
How You Can Help
Whether you’ve already contributed financially or are unable to do so at this time, your advocacy is invaluable. Here’s how you can make a difference:
- Contact Your Federal Representatives
- Senator Michael Bennet
- Phone: (202) 224-5852
- Email: Contact Form
- Senator John Hickenlooper
- Phone: (202) 224-5941
- Email: Contact Form
- Representative Joe Neguse (2nd District)
- Phone: (202) 225-2161
- Email: Contact Form
- Senator Michael Bennet
- Contact Your State Representatives (for Estes Park residents)
- State Senator Janice Marchman (District 15)
- Phone: (303) 866-4853
- Email: janice.marchman.senate@coleg.gov
- State Representative Lesley Smith (District 49)
- Phone: (303) 866-2578
- Email: lesley.smith.house@coleg.gov
- Live outside of Estes? Verify your specific district representative using the Find My Legislator tool.
- State Senator Janice Marchman (District 15)
Sample Phone Script
“Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I live in [City], Colorado. I am calling to ask Senator/Representative [Name] to support community health center funding!
As you know, Salud Family Health is the only access for underserved patients in my community. Without Salud, many wouldn’t have access to essential services. It’s critical that health center funding is secured before it runs out. Our community is counting on your support. Thank you.”
Sample Letter
[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Date]
[Recipient’s Name] [Office Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Senator/Representative Name],
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the future of community health centers, particularly Salud Family Health in our community. As a resident of [City], I have witnessed firsthand the indispensable services that Salud provides to underserved populations, including medical, dental, behavioral health, and pharmacy care.
Recent financial challenges, such as a decrease in Medicaid-covered patients and stagnant federal funding, have placed Salud in a precarious position. Without immediate legislative support to secure necessary funding, Salud may be forced to reduce services or close its doors, leaving many in our community without essential health care options.
I urge you to advocate for and support sustained funding for community health centers now. The health and well-being of our community depend on it.
Thank you for your attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Your engagement can help ensure Salud Family Health and other community health centers continue to serve those who need it most. Thank you for standing with us in this crucial effort!