Community Medical Centers has been awarded a $5.7 million grant from the state of California to complete construction of its new Adolescent Health Center in downtown Stockton. Completion of the refurbishment of “The Rock” building at Weber Avenue and Stanislaus Street is expected in March 2024.

The CMC Adolescent Health Center will provide an array of evidence-based services for vulnerable adolescents in Stockton and the surrounding area. Behavioral health, substance use treatment, primary care, reproductive health care, and pediatrics are among the services to be provided.

“We’re very grateful the state has recognized the importance of this project,” CMC Chief Executive Officer Christine Noguera said. “We know that young people aren’t always certain of where to go to access health care. The Adolescent Health Center will be a trusted place for them to receive the services they need during an important period in their lives.”

As a Federally Qualified Health Center, CMC provides care to patients regardless of their ability to pay. More than one-quarter of San Joaquin County’s population is under 18, and the majority of students countywide come from households with barriers to stable housing, healthy food, and regular healthcare, all of which can cause lifelong health issues.

Governor Gavin Newsom this month announced 54 Children and Youth grants – including CMC’s award – totaling $480.5 million. The awards, which were delivered through the Department of Health Care Services’ Behavioral Health Continuum Infrastructure Program, are providing an unprecedented opportunity to address historic gaps and effect meaningful, sustainable change.

“Young people – especially here in San Joaquin County – face many hurdles as they move toward adulthood,” CMC Chief Behavioral Health Officer Alfonso Apu said. “Having access to the care we will provide at the Adolescent Health Center will be one less thing young people in our community will have to worry about. This new grant from the state is something for our entire community to celebrate.”

Community Medical Centers is a non-profit network of neighborhood health centers serving San Joaquin, Solano, and Yolo counties. CMC provides primary medical, dental, and behavioral health care along with supportive services to individuals and families in need. Visit cmcenters.org for a complete list of locations, services, and hours.