The Working Group in Alameda County, California has been devoted to tackling racial health disparities in the most impoverished areas. The Alameda County Department of Public Health (ACPHD) has been at the forefront of this mission, collaborating with grassroots activists, defense organizations, and other government entities to bring about changes in local regulations and practices related to housing, affordability, and access. As a result, the ACPHD vision is now: “Everyone in Alameda County, no matter who they are, where they live, how much money they make, or the color of their skin, has a healthy, full, and productive life”. In order to realize this goal, the ACPHD has taken a number of steps.
For instance, they have worked with the Alameda County Department of Healthy Homes to advocate for modifications in code enforcement policies and practices that safeguard health. Additionally, they have partnered with the National Center for Healthy Housing (NCHE) to invite the county supervisor to form an Alameda County site issues team. Finally, they have collaborated with Place Matters and CAPE to develop a survey among ACPHD and Alameda County Behavioral Health Services staff. These efforts illustrate how environmental coalitions in Alameda County have developed over time to meet changing needs and challenges. By working together with various stakeholders and taking proactive steps to address racial health inequities, the ACPHD is helping to create a healthier and more equitable future for all inhabitants of Alameda County.
