A non-profit, community-based health promotion and policy organization based in Los Angeles.

For more than twenty years, Community Health Councils (CHC) has led efforts to eliminate disparities in health by expanding coverage, increasing access to healthcare, and improving the environment in areas with inadequate resources for health living.

CHC engages, supports, and gives voice to marginalized, low-income and under-served populations through coalition building and community mobilization. Our dynamic network of coalitions is composed of neighborhood leaders, consumer advocates, healthcare, social services, educational and faith-based organizations serving communities in Los Angeles, across California and the US.

Our work has addressed key policy questions such as:

• Health reform
• Public reporting on the quality of healthcare
• Preserving the healthcare safety net
• Tobacco and air quality control
• Regulation of urban oil drilling
• Expanding walking, biking, and public transportation options
• Increased parks and open spaces
• A diversity of resources for fresh, wholesome food.

CHC’s mission is to promote social justice and achieve equity in community and environmental resources to improve the health of underserved populations.

What We Do

CHC’s four policy areas work through coalitions and community advisory groups to improve health, eliminate disparities, and achieve health equity.

CHC utilizes data coupled with the knowledge, experience and expertise of consumers and community organizations to shape and develop policy and systems change. CHC’s policy advocacy is grounded by the coalitions and the community-based initiatives that form the foundation of our work. A series of community interventions provides constant input to identify issues, assess community needs and formulate policy recommendations to transform the conditions in which people live.Our coalitions and programs fall under four policy areas:

Environmental Health reduces environmental risks by addressing issues related to transportation, vacant lots, open spaces, brownfields, oil drilling, air quality, and smoking.

Healthcare Coverage is dedicated to ensuring all Californians have healthcare coverage by eliminating barriers to applying for, using, and retaining health coverage.

Healthcare Systems works to preserve and improve access to, and the quality of, the healthcare safety net.

Nutrition Resources champions a healthier lifestyle by improving the quality and expanding access to fresh, wholesome food.