Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata announced on May 15 that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has awarded a discretionary grant of $306,604 to the American Samoa Medical Center Authority.
The funding is designated for family planning services at LBJ Tropical Medical Center and will cover one year of a five-year project. The grant comes through the federal Office of Family Planning, which operates within the HHS Office of Public Health and Science. The Department of Health and Human Services is led by Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.
In her statement, Congresswoman Amata said, “Thank you especially to Bethel Mussau-Howard regarding this grant and effort, and all involved. We’re grateful always to the health professionals at the LBJ Tropical Medical Center and our Health Department for medical care for our people.” She added, “Thank you to HHS for supporting our hospital programs, and congratulations to ASG for their roles ensuring federal funds are obtained.”
The announcement highlights ongoing efforts by local officials and health professionals in American Samoa to secure federal support aimed at improving healthcare services in the region.
Looking ahead, officials expect that continued collaboration between local agencies and federal partners will help maintain vital healthcare programs throughout the duration of this multi-year initiative.
