Laredo, TX– Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced $53,750 in federal funds for the City of Laredo and their efforts to prevent or minimize the impact of this pandemic on people with HIV/AIDS. This funding, awarded through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), will assist Laredo in reducing the number of new HIV diagnoses while maintaining access to care, medication, and prevention services. 

“As the coronavirus pandemic continues to spread across the United States, it threatens efforts to combat existing health challenges, including HIV/AIDS,” said Congressman Cuellar. “This federal investment will be used to support and continue treatment for individuals living with HIV/AIDS during these challenging times. As a senior member on the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to fund programs that provide services that support people living with HIV/AIDS and encourage their engagement in treatment and care. I want to thank Mayor Pete Saenz, Health Department Director Dr. Hector Gonzalez, City Manager Robert Eads, and City Council members for their commitment to supporting this vulnerable population.”

As a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, Congressman Cuellar helped secure $90 million for the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program in the CARES Act. The Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program funds grants to states, cities/counties, and local community-based organizations across the country to provide HIV related care and medications for people with HIV without health coverage or with coverage limitations.

The awards will give the City flexibility to meet evolving needs, including extending operational hours, increasing staffing hours, purchasing additional equipment, enhancing workforce training and capacity development, and providing critical services to people with HIV during this pandemic, such as home-delivered meals, emergency housing and transportation.