Senator Collins Visits Wabanaki Public Health in Bangor

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Bangor, ME – This afternoon, U.S. Senator Susan Collins visited Wabanaki Public Health in Bangor to tour the facility and meet with staff members, including Lisa Sockabasin, Director of Programs and External Affairs. 

“The coronavirus is taking an unprecedented toll on our health care system, but Wabanaki Public Health has risen to the occasion by continuing to support Maine’s tribal communities,” said Senator Collins.  “As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I have strongly supported this impressive organization’s efforts to improve the health and wellbeing of tribal members in Maine.”

Amid the COVID-19 public health emergency, Senator Collins has helped secure nearly $4 million in federal funding for tribal health in Maine, including awards of $2.7 million in July to expand public health and wellness services and more than $1 million in August to build and expand public health infrastructure. Senator Collins also helped secure $1 million in August to combat tribal substance and opioid use disorders. 

As a co-chair of the Senate Diabetes Caucus, Senator Collins understands the importance of the Special Diabetes Program to Native Americans, who have a disproportionately high rate of diabetes.  She continues to fight for investments in research for new treatments, therapies, and ultimately a cure.  Senator Collins continues to advocate for a multi-year extension of the SDP.

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