Across the Alliance service area, community-based organizations are showing how trusted relationships can translate into healthier families and stronger communities.
Through the Alliance’s Medi-Cal Capacity Grant Program, the Alliance has helped local organizations bring education, peer support and connections to health care and community resources directly to the people they serve. These programs emphasize culturally and linguistically responsive approaches and recognize the important role community members themselves can play in improving health.
The results from efforts in 2025–2026 demonstrate the power of that approach.
In Merced County, NAMI Merced County trained 108 Spanish-speaking parents through its Fortaleza Familiar program, helping families strengthen parenting skills, relationships and home environments.
In Santa Cruz County, Dominican Hospital’s Neonatal Therapy team, in partnership with the Dignity Health Wellness Center, expanded its parent education and infant program to serve 411 Medi-Cal members. Parents participating in the program reported an average 27.1% decrease in anxiety, and the team expanded classes and prenatal support in response to community needs.
In Monterey County, The Parenting Connection trained peer facilitators and established support circles across 12 locations. The program served 768 community members from 344 families, primarily Medi-Cal members, and connected 128 families to additional support and resources.
Also in Monterey County, the Center for Community Advocacy demonstrated the reach of trusted community messengers. Its 26 trained promotores conducted 137 outreach sessions, reaching 5,925 people to increase awareness of Medi-Cal benefits and coverage and connect residents to health care and mental health services.
The Alliance is proud to support local organizations working directly with Medi-Cal families. Together, these efforts show that investing in trusted local partners builds connections, strengthens families and helps community members navigate pathways to better health.
