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Minority health programs press county to expand vaccine outreach, culturally competent mental-health services and a shared AAPI data platform
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Summary
Representatives of the African American Health Program, Asian American Health Initiative and Latino Health Initiative urged the county to boost vaccination outreach, culturally competent mental-health services and data-driven coordination for minority communities.
Three minority health initiatives told the Health and Human Services Committee that rising disease burdens, mental-health needs and a shifting economy require renewed investment in outreach, culturally competent services, and coordinated information systems.
"Flu season is here. The county needs to encourage more influenza vaccinations countywide," Jacqueline Williams, co-chair of the African American Health Program—s executive committee, said. Williams urged clear messaging on vaccine access and cost, investment in culturally affirming mental-health programs and continued support for community-based prevention efforts addressing chronic disease, maternal health and youth programs.
Representatives from the Asian American Health Initiative emphasized capacity-building for community-based organizations and offered two top priorities: behavioral health and a platform to collect, analyze and share data about AAPI communities so stakeholders can coordinate services. The AHI representative noted that 68% of AAPI residents are first-generation and that 28% have limited English proficiency, arguing that tailored outreach and multilingual materials are essential.
Latino Health Initiative co-chairs said the county faces a —perfect storm— of a shrinking service economy and rising need among families who historically did not require services. They urged the county to allow faster, more flexible funding responses like those used during the COVID emergency and to rely on trusted nonprofit partnerships for rapid response. The initiative highlighted the success of community health promoters and recommended scalable, flexible supports for safety-net services.
Panelists recommended a mix of paid media, social-media strategies, multilingual websites maintained by community organizations, and county-supported promotional materials (including short videos) to help boards and commissions recruit volunteers and connect residents to services. Several presenters asked the county to consider training small community groups in marketing and digital skills rather than relying solely on paid advertising.
