Community Health Centers (CHCs) nationwide are celebrating a significant federal investment that underscores their essential role in America’s health care system.
Congress recently approved a $4.6 billion increase in the Community Health Center Fund — the largest boost in mandatory funding in a decade — reinforcing bipartisan recognition of the critical services CHCs provide. The continued partnership with the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) further demonstrates strong federal support for expanding access to high-quality, affordable care in medically underserved communities.
“This investment sends a powerful message,” said CHC advocates nationwide. “Community Health Centers are indispensable to the health and stability of our communities.”
A Critical Moment for Sustainability
Despite this progress, significant challenges remain. Community Health Centers are facing rising operational costs, persistent workforce shortages, and reduced savings from the 340B Drug Pricing Program.
Recent national data show:
- Nearly half of CHCs operate with fewer than 90 days of cash on hand
- One in four health centers report negative operating margins of approximately -5%
- CHCs collectively serve more than 52 million patients nationwide
These financial pressures make sustained and robust federal funding essential to stabilizing health centers, expanding access, and maintaining high standards of care.
Key Federal Priorities
Advocates are urging HRSA to prioritize:
- Capital investments in health IT and technology infrastructure
- Expanded behavioral health and nutrition services
- New Access Points in underserved communities
- Growth of the Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education program
In addition, advocates are asking members of Congress to sign the FY27 Appropriations Letter supporting strong CHC funding. Each year, Congress must approve approximately 30% of Community Health Center funding through the appropriations process. Strong bipartisan participation signals to Congressional leadership the importance of protecting and strengthening this vital safety net.
The advocacy effort is being coordinated nationally by the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC), which continues to provide updates and guidance to health centers and supporters across the country.
How to Get Involved
Community members and stakeholders are encouraged to:
- Contact HRSA regarding Community Health Center funding priorities
- Ask their U.S. Representative to sign the FY27 Appropriations Letter
- Share advocacy campaigns with colleagues and community members
- Subscribe to NACHC’s Washington Update newsletter for the latest federal policy updates
Community Health Centers remain a cornerstone of equitable health care delivery in the United States. Continued engagement from patients, providers, partners, and advocates will be essential to ensuring long-term, sustainable investments that allow CHCs to thrive — and to continue serving millions who rely on them.
Visit https://hcadvocacy.quorum.us/campaign/HRSA-Letter-March2026/ and https://hcadvocacy.quorum.us/campaign/CHCFY27Approps/ to learn more.