Molina Healthcare of California Celebrates Three San Diego MolinaCares Community Champions

11/07/2022

SAN DIEGO, Calif., Nov. 7, 2022 — Molina Healthcare of California (“Molina”) recently recognized three San Diego area residents for their dedication to addressing social determinants of health through the MolinaCares Community Champions program. Each honoree received a $5,000 grant to pay forward to the nonprofit organization of their choice.

“The MolinaCares Community Champions award is an important way to recognize people who are making a difference in the health and well-being of communities in need throughout the San Diego area," said Abbie Totten, plan president of Molina Healthcare of California.

This year’s San Diego MolinaCares Community Champions are:

Sebastian Martinez of Chula Vista has donated many hours to serving unsheltered individuals in the South Bay community. He has spearheaded many community projects and events, including those addressing medical and hygienic needs, as well as events providing free showers. As executive director at Community Through Hope, he leads by example, empowering young people who want to make a difference in the world but lack the confidence to do so. Martinez’s grant will be donated to Community Through Hope.

Monica Rocha of San Diego has a passion for serving the community, including her own City Heights neighborhood. Together with 35 local residents, she founded Latinos y Latinas en Acción, which has helped more than 1,600 residents become United States citizens. As the COVID-19 pandemic began, Rocha hosted various mental health workshops with topics ranging from grief, anxiety, depression, and how to navigate the pandemic. In 2008, President Barack Obama honored Rocha for lifetime leadership and volunteer services. Rocha’s grant will be donated to Latinos y Latinas en Acción.

Jerry Troyer of La Mesa has devoted much of his life to his community. Recognizing the need for services and shelter for youth experiencing homelessness, Troyer joined the board of a homeless youth organization, volunteering countless hours to address the needs of at-risk youth. This has included delivering food, clothing, medical supplies and other essential items. Troyer has donated over 2,000 hours and served over 2,500 youth – connecting them to housing and other services. Troyer’s grant will be donated to Urban Street Angels.

About Molina Healthcare of California
Molina Healthcare of California has been providing government-funded care for 40 years. The Company serves members through Medi-Cal, Medicare, Medicare-Medicaid (Duals) and Covered California (Marketplace). Molina’s service areas include Sacramento, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside, San Diego, Orange County and Imperial counties. Through its locally operated health plans, Molina Healthcare, Inc., a FORTUNE 500 company, served approximately 5.1 million members as of June 30, 2022.