By Bo Tefu | California Black Media
California is making major new investments in community health and manufacturing, directing nearly a quarter billion dollars toward programs that expand access to health care and to support job creation across the state. Gov. Gavin Newsom announced two sets of awards last week that aim to strengthen local services, grow regional industries, and boost the state’s long-term economic outlook.
The largest investment includes $145.5 million to 153 organizations that provide community-based health and social services. The funding is part of the state’s Providing Access and Transforming Health (PATH) Capacity and Infrastructure, Transition, Expansion, and Development (CITED) initiative. The program helps local providers expand whole-person care, including housing supports, care coordination, and services for historically underserved communities.
“PATH CITED represents a vital investment in the future of Medi-Cal and the health of California,” said Department of Health Care Services Director Michelle Baass. She said the funding strengthens a more equitable, person-centered system and helps connect Medi-Cal members to the support they need.
Newsom said the state remains committed to improving access to care and supporting locally tailored services that meet community needs.
Through the broader five-year PATH initiative launched in 2022, California has awarded more than $1.66 billion to more than 2,200 providers. The state reports that the work has expanded access for children and youth and helped reduce avoidable hospital visits.
The state is also investing nearly $100 million to accelerate manufacturing growth and create new jobs. Nine companies received California Competes Tax Credits through the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (Go-Biz). The awards support an estimated 2,752 new jobs with an average annual salary of $139,000 and will generate more than $370 million in private investment.
“California’s global leadership in innovation and manufacturing continues to set us apart,” Newsom said. The selected companies represent sectors including aerospace, microelectronics, wastewater treatment, food manufacturing, and apparel.
Dee Dee Myers, Senior Advisor to the Governor and Director of GO-Biz, said the companies represent the next generation of California innovation.
State officials say the combined investments will strengthen regional economies, support workers, and reinforce California’s long-term commitment to equitable growth across health care and industry.
