The Power of a Microgrant
Desiree is an AltaMed patient who works hard to manage her health within the means of a tight budget. With the help of her doctor, David Noya , M.D., she secures a microgrant from the AltaMed Community Cares Fund to help her purchase essential items in her time of financial need.
Desiree radiates warmth and brightness wherever she goes. Originally from Alabama, she has lived in Los Angeles for the past 30 years. “I guess I’m native, but I still say I’m from Alabama because I can’t get the country out of me,” she says.
Five years ago, she began receiving care at AltaMed, where she formed a strong bond with her physician, David Noya M.D. He diagnosed Desiree with type 2 diabetes and works closely with her to keep her blood sugar in check through medication and nutrition guidance. “Dr. Noya’s bedside manner is outstanding,” says Desiree. “I’m really happy with AltaMed because they take care of me. I’m not going anywhere else”
Food insecurity is Desiree’s biggest hurdle in managing her diabetes. Without a job, she struggles to afford basics such as food and water. She worked for many years as an insurance agent, but the pandemic forced her to stop working outside her home. She has since taken on temporary jobs, but is currently unemployed and survives on a severely limited budget of just $221 a month.
Recognizing her need, Dr. Noya secured a microgrant for her through the AltaMed Community Cares Fund (CCF).
Bridging Gaps to Healthy Living
Started in 2017, the CCF provides microgrants ranging from $200-$500 as well as other vital resources to patients and their families who are facing food and housing insecurity, dealing with loss, or experiencing other financial difficulties.
When Desiree received the grant, she had just $10 left in her pocket.
With the funds, Desiree was able to purchase food and water, soap, shampoo, conditioner, toilet paper, and even treat herself to regularly denied items like lotion and body spray for Christmas. She says, “It really lifted my spirits. You take it for granted when you’re working and can just pop out to get it whenever you run out.”
Although she has limited kitchen access, Desiree tries to cook at home as much as possible. “I mainly focus on protein and vegetables and have decreased my intake of carbs,” she explains. Only human, she allows herself a couple of cheat days now and then.
Access to healthy food, shelter, and other essential needs truly make a difference when it comes to managing and improving chronic health conditions. Thanks to safety net resources like the CCF, we can offer much needed support to Desiree and others like her to ensure they have the resources to lead a better quality of life.
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