First 5 California Welcomes Mayra E. Alvarez to State Commission

Business Wire

SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Governor Gavin Newsom has appointed Mayra E. Alvarez, President of The Children’s Partnership, to First 5 California, the state’s independent Commission for children and families.

Ms. Alvarez brings over a decade of experience in health care policy and community outreach to her new role. Prior to joining The Children’s Partnership in 2015, Ms. Alvarez served several years at the United States Department of Health and Human Services in the administration of President Obama, which included time at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Office of Minority Health, and Office of Health Reform. In addition to being an accomplished bilingual spokesperson on the Affordable Care Act and the issues of child health and wellbeing, Ms. Alvarez serves on the Mental Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission, which oversees the implementation of the Mental Health Services Act.

“We are thrilled to be adding another children’s health crusader to our Commission,” said Camille Maben, Executive Director of First 5 California. “As we expand our capacity as a Commission to engage more deeply in health care policy and family resiliency strategies, we recognize and appreciate Ms. Alvarez’s extensive background as her expertise in these areas will be invaluable. Ms. Alvarez’s appointment could not come at a better time for children in California, during the leadership of an early childhood champion Governor and Legislature.”

“It is my strong belief that every child and family—no matter their background—should have the opportunity and resources to pursue their dreams,” said Ms. Alvarez. “This is a belief shared by this Administration and evidenced in their unwavering commitment to the whole child and whole family. I am honored for the opportunity to work alongside my fellow Commissioners, and partners across the state, to make this vision a reality for the children and families of California.”

Ms. Alvarez will be sworn in at the Commission’s October 24, 2019, meeting.

First 5 California was established in 1998 when voters passed Proposition 10, which taxes tobacco products to fund services for children ages 0 to 5 and their families. First 5 California programs and resources are designed to educate and support teachers, parents, and caregivers in the critical role they play during a child's first five years – to help California kids receive the best possible start in life and thrive. For more information, please visit www.ccfc.ca.gov.