FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 7, 2025

Media Contact:

Adriana Gonzalez, Communications Coordinator

831-678-6033 adgonzalez@schcd.com

Senator John Laird Visits Soledad Community Health Care District, Tours Facilities and Meets Staff

SOLEDAD, Calif. — The Soledad Community Health Care District was honored to welcome Sen. John Laird on Friday, April 4, for a special visit and tour of the district’s three vital facilities: Soledad Medical Clinic, the Women’s Health Center and Eden Valley Care Center.

The visit was led by Chief Executive Officer Ida Lopez Chan, who provided the senator with an inside look at the district’s ongoing commitment to providing accessible, quality care in South Monterey County. Laird engaged with employees, listened to residents and learned more about the unique responsibilities and challenges special districts face in delivering health care to rural communities.

“We are incredibly grateful to Sen. Laird for taking the time to visit our facilities and speak with the people who bring our mission to life every day,” Lopez Chan said. “His support reinforces the importance of ensuring health care access for underserved and rural populations.”

Adding to the significance of the day, the district also celebrated a meaningful staff milestone. Maria G. (Lupita) Chavez-Contreras, a dedicated team member at Soledad Medical Clinic, was recognized for her 20 years of service. Her recognition took place during the senator’s tour and included a certificate of appreciation and small tokens of gratitude in honor of her two decades of commitment to community care.

Laird’s visit highlighted the ongoing work and positive impact the Soledad Community Health Care District continues to have on the region, while offering a meaningful opportunity for direct dialogue with constituents and frontline health care professionals.

The district remains committed to advancing health care access and equity throughout South Monterey County and welcomes continued collaboration with legislative leaders and community stakeholders.

Visit soledadcommunityhealthcaredist.org for more information.

About the Soledad Community Health Care District

Formed in 1948 under California’s Local Health Care District Law, the Soledad Community Health Care District (SCHCD) serves the residents of South Monterey County with accessible, high-quality care. The district operates Soledad Medical Clinic, Eden Valley Care Center and the Women’s Health Center, providing a comprehensive range of services including family medicine, prenatal and women’s health, skilled nursing, rehabilitation therapies and chronic disease management. SCHCD is committed to meeting the evolving healthcare needs of the region through community partnerships, innovation and patient-centered care.

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