Participated in Community Action to Fight Asthma (CAFA) project, which is part of a statewide initiative funded by The California Endowment. The goal of CAFA is to reduce environmental asthma triggers through public education and policies that promote “asthma friendly” environments where children live, learn, and play. Mid-City was selected as the San Diego’s CAFA site based on need and evidence of high childhood asthma rates. SDRAC has worked with Mid-City CAN to address the problem of overflowing trash, which was the number one concern identified by residents through a survey conducted by the National Latino Research Center.
Conducting air quality monitoring near Chollas landfill in City Heights through a U.S. EPA grant.
Funding provided by San Diego City Councilman Jim Madaffer to plant 25 low-allergy trees in Mid-City’s Somali community. People for Trees and Horn of Africa will assist with this community project. Trees (urban forestry) are known to reduce air toxins and energy needs as well as improve air quality.
Working with City of National City Asthma Committee on two grant-funded projects that focus on asthma education and awareness. Committee members include National City Vice Mayor Frank Parra and Councilman Luis Natividad, City Manager Chris Zapata and Building and Safety Department staff, American Lung Association, Environmental Health Coalition, Paradise Valley Hospital, St. Anthony’s Ministry, and Kimball Elementary School. Tools for Schools will be implemented at Kimball Elementary School.