Representative John Duarte

Update from Congressman Duarte

Dear [firstname],

I wanted to update you on what I've been up to this week.

Veterans Round Table

On Wednesday, I hosted my third veterans' roundtable in Madera. It focused on solving the problems that veterans bring to me. The worst problems I heard were about the transition from military to civilian life, which is why I introduced two bills to simplify the paperwork when transitioning. Also, I led a panel of Central Valley and national veterans' organizations, non-profits, schools, and mental health services focused on solving their problems. The panel discussed current information about veteran benefits, claims, and resources and how to improve communication between organizations, experts, veterans, and officials.

While there are over 45,000 non-profits supporting veterans, very few are effective at engaging younger veterans. This round-table was not only a chance for them to share how they can support veterans but to develop techniques to engage younger veterans. I’ve always found panels to be productive because there are so many experts sharing their knowledge.

A panel of experts from organizations dedicated to veterans.

Ceres and San Joaquin Town Halls

My town halls in Ceres and San Joaquin went great! In Ceres, we had great discussions on my work to make groceries cheaper. Thank you to everyone who came to my Ceres town hall last night to discuss these kitchen table issues with me! Hearing your different voices and perspectives helps me represent you in Washington.

Discussing our Valley's key issues in Ceres.

In San Joaquin, I brought my translator to learn about the pressing issues facing our farming communities, including lowering the cost of living, new community projects, immigration reform, and SNAP benefits. See you at the next event!

Hearing from you on pressing issues facing our community.

How do you prefer to attend town halls?

In-person

Virtual

Telephone

Other

Coalinga Dialysis Tour

This week I received a tour of DaVita’s Coalinga dialysis facility with Facility Administrator Christina Pinto-Campos and Regional Director Holly Vigario. I learned more about DaVita, which serves 764 dialysis patients at 9 centers throughout our Valley. Even though these patients were given a terrible diagnosis, they had high spirits and amazing stories. While medical spending continues to rise, our outcomes for our dialysis patients have not improved enough. I am committed to improving medical care in every Valley community, no matter how rural.

Salvation Army Event

I was thrilled to help the Salvation Army's food distribution event in San Joaquin. The Salvation Army provides meals to 400 families each week to our families. However, the food was only half of it: I kept hearing how this event brought the community together. It was an honor to speak with our hardworking Valley constituents. We need to support our farm workers and all working families in our Valley. Together we can build a better and more affordable future for all.

Had a great time helping out the Salvation Army and talking to our Valley's hardworking families.

Upcoming Town Halls

Please join me at my Madera Town Hall on Tuesday, August 20th at 6:00 PM at Frank Bergon Senior Center. I would love to hear your ideas on how we can improve our Valley. Come out and make your voices heard!

It is my honor to be your voice in Washington. To learn more about my positions on the issues, share your views with me, request assistance with resolving issues you may have with Federal agencies or programs, or to subscribe to my email list, please visit my website, https://duarte.house.gov.

Sincerely,