Mitigating Air Quality-Related Health Conditions
The Mitigating Air Quality–Related Health Conditions Initiative, implemented through a Request for Proposals (RFP) with a grant period from January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2026, advances the Desert Healthcare District and Foundation’s commitment to protecting public health by addressing the impacts of poor air quality on Coachella Valley residents. The initiative aligns with the District’s 2021–2026 Strategic Plan, Goal 6: Be responsive to and supportive of selected community initiatives that enhance the environment in the District’s service area, and Strategy 6.1: Increase awareness and address the health impacts of air quality in the Coachella Valley.
The initiative supports prevention, early identification, and improved access to health services that reduce air pollution–related health risks, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children, older adults, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.
After thorough review, the District Board approved funding for five organizations that demonstrated strong alignment with these priorities. Desert Recreation Foundation, Youth Leadership Institute, DAP Health, The American Institute for Respiratory Equity (dba The Foundation for AAIR), and Vision y Compromiso will use grant funding to expand outreach, provide community education, and improve access to preventive and health services related to air quality. These efforts will enhance awareness of air pollution risks, strengthen family and community supports, and expand access to preventative screenings, referrals, and supportive services.
To advance these outcomes, the initiative is guided by three core strategies:
- Strategy 1: Increase and enhance awareness and foster connections that mitigate the impact of air quality on health conditions and outcomes
- Strategy 2: Evaluate household environments to identify methods for improving indoor air quality
- Strategy 3: Increase access to health services to reduce the impact of poor air quality on health
A total of $997,353 was awarded to community-based partners to support these efforts.
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