It has been a great week! Two projects that I championed state funding for took major steps forward in bringing more investment into our Asian American Pacific Islander communities.

On Wednesday, the Asian Pacific Islander Cultural Center (APICC) and Kulintang Arts Inc. (KULARTS) announced the acquisition of a building on Langton Street, which is slated to become the very first permanent performance space in the heart of SOMA Pilipinas, San Francisco's dynamic Filipino Cultural Heritage District. I secured $3 million to help uplift AAPI stories and foster greater understanding among all groups.

The next day, the Richmond Area Multi-Services Inc. (RAMS) broke ground on a new mental health wellness clinic at 601 Clement Street. This new location will expand culturally-competent programs and services that this nonprofit is known for. I fought for $6.5 million from the state budget because of the great need for expansion. AAPI individuals have the lowest rate of seeking mental health care of any racial or ethnic group, and this organization is making strides to change that.

The above milestones are among the accomplishments I'll be celebrating at my final Community Breakfast on Saturday, October 19. It starts at 10 a.m. and will be held at the California Academy of Sciences. Be sure to RSVP because spots are filling up fast. Coffee and egg sandwiches are provided on a first come, first serve basis at no taxpayer expense.

I hope to see you there,

PHIL TING
Assemblymember, 19th District