By: NACHC Staff

During ceremonies last night, NACHC honored four Members of Congress for their steadfast commitment to supporting Community Health Centers.

U.S. Sens. Susan Collins (R-ME) and Bernie Sanders (D-VT) and U.S. Reps. Gene Green (D-TX) and James Clyburn (D-SC), the House Majority Whip, earned recognition as Distinguished Health Center Champions.

Read more about Sanders’ award at his website.

See the video below for clips from their remarks.

“I have been a strong champion for Community Health Centers.  They provide comprehensive and integrated primary care services to individuals regardless of their ability to pay.  The centers are also so rooted in their communities — and that’s important too, because they’re governed by the same communities that they’re serving.  And that’s what ensures the high level of responsiveness and accountability.” — U.S. Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME)

“We’re successful because of what you do every day — serving our constituents and our community.  Whether you’re Democrat or Republican, rural or urban — community-based health centers are so important and growing every day.” — U.S. Rep. Gene Green (D-TX)

“You are doing an extraordinary job, and I can tell you that my work in the Congress is easier because of what you have done.  There are very few people in Congress that I have heard say a bad word about community centers and that is because of the work that you have done, so thank you.” — U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT)

“Thank you so much for your commitment to deliverying affordable, accessible and accountable health care for all the citizens of our great nation.” — House Majority Whip James Clyburn (D-SC)