Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-Hawaii) announced that Kokua Kalihi Valley (KKV) Comprehensive Family Services has been awarded a $150,000 Office of Minority Health grant under the Bilingual/Bicultural Service Demonstration Program.

Kokua Kalihi Valley Comprehensive Family Services will use the funds to enhance access to health care services by improving the delivery of health education and medical assistance to Kalihi Valley residents. KKV aims to enhance linguistic skills and cultural understanding among health care staff members serving the community. Individuals will be trained to be certified trainers in Cultural Competency and Medical Interpretation. Workshops on serving immigrants in a linguistically and culturally appropriate manner will be conducted to train other health care professionals, including medical students at the University of Hawaii's School of Medicine.

"Enhancing cultural and linguistic skills among health care professionals is important to effectively provide health care assistance to individuals with limited English proficiency," Akaka said. "I am pleased that Kokua Kalihi Valley Comprehensive Family Services will be able to help members of our community, including many who may have limited English proficiency, access and use appropriate family health and social services."