In September, the nation reached a major milestone when the Treasury Department announced that 50 million Americans have received health care coverage through the Affordable Care Act since it took effect in 2014. The Catholic Health Association of the United States is proud to have been a consistent advocate for protecting and strengthening America’s health safety net as part of our mission to provide quality care for the most vulnerable.

Public policy that supports a robust safety net is critical in partnership with mission-driven service in underserved and vulnerable communities. As Congress approaches the year-end appropriations debate — elected leaders in Washington must prioritize the extension of critical health and family safety net programs to ensure continued access to affordable and quality care for all.