Our Story
Founded in 2011, the Central California Asthma Collaborative (CCAC) emerged from the Fresno/Madera Asthma Coalition, driven by a mission to enhance asthma education and advocacy in Fresno and Madera counties. With initial funding from the Wesley Foundation, CCAC developed an asthma education program tailored for children in low-income communities. Over the years, CCAC has expanded its reach, partnering with local health plans and safety net providers to implement innovative asthma management programs.
In 2013, CCAC explored social impact bonds to support community-based asthma management, leading to the creation of the Asthma Impact Model (AIM). This program has proven effective in reducing asthma symptoms and emergency care utilization, significantly improving the quality of life for low-income children suffering from asthma. With continued support from private foundations and public grants, CCAC has expanded its services across Kern, Kings, Merced, Stanislaus, and San Joaquin Counties.
In 2020, CCAC received funding from the Department of Health Care Services, allowing for a broader implementation of enhanced in-home asthma remediation and education services. The AIM program was rebranded as the Comprehensive Asthma Remediation and Education Services (CARES) program, now serving Medi-Cal patients in seven counties of the San Joaquin Valley.