CHA Urges Action to Support Vulnerable Individuals Impacted by the Pandemic


For Immediate Release 
March 12, 2020
Contact: Brian Reardon 

WASHINGTON, DC – As the national leadership organization representing more than 2,200 Catholic health care systems, hospitals, long-term care facilities, sponsors and related organizations, the Catholic Health Association of the United States (CHA) is urging lawmakers to act quickly on legislation to protect the health and economic well-being of individuals, their families and communities affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a letter sent to the lawmakers today, CHA urged Congress to work toward bipartisan passage of a coronavirus response bill that can deliver the necessary resources to save lives. “Any legislative package needs to ensure vulnerable individuals and families are protected and supported through enhancement of our safety net programs,” said Sr. Mary Haddad, RSM, President and CEO.

“By providing federal funding for testing and treatment; paid sick leave for impacted individuals and families; protecting coverage and providing federal financial support for Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Programs; increasing unemployment benefits for all workers; and including other provisions to support related programs such as housing and nutrition assistance, particularly for the elderly and families with children, Congress will be protecting those most in need and those who will bear the brunt of this pandemic and economic downturn,” added Sr. Mary.

Throughout history Catholic health care has been on the frontlines caring for our nation in times of crisis, just as our ministry is today addressing the coronavirus outbreak. “I echo Pope Francis’ comments this week* offering ‘heartfelt thanks to hospital personnel, doctors, nurses, and volunteers who in this difficult moment are close to the people who are suffering,’” said Sr. Mary.

CHA encourages individuals to stay informed as information becomes available by going to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html.

*Pope Francis remarks at Wednesday, March 11, 2020 General Audience

» Download a PDF version of the statement

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The Catholic Health Association of the United States is the national leadership organization of the Catholic health ministry, representing the largest nonprofit provider of health care services in the nation.
  • 1 in 7 patients in the U.S. is cared for in a Catholic hospital each day.
  • Catholic health care, which includes more than 2,200 hospitals, nursing homes, long-term care facilities, systems, sponsors, and related organizations, serves the full continuum of health care across our nation.

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