The Childhood Asthma Initiative (CAI) is an in-home asthma education program designed to address the many factors that contribute to a child’s asthma. The Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) collaborates with LA Care, QueensCare, and the Environmental Protection Agency to provide services. 

CAI partners, Healthy African American Families and the Coalition for Community Health have trained bilingual coordinators who deliver literacy appropriate education in a compassionate and respectful manner. 

Each coordinator conducts in-home education and environmental assessment for allergens. Coordinators work with families to help them follow their child’s medical treatment plan provided by a physician. Training on proper medication is provided, as well as referrals to other services. 

Delivery of culturally appropriate care is critical in families’ adoption of practices that allow them to control children’s asthma. These goals are being accomplished by improving the delivery, quality, and coordination of preventive, educational and treatment services directed towards childhood asthma. 

The indoor allergens associated with asthma are commonly present in older, substandard housing with high tenant turnover. 

AAFA is honored to have been selected to administer this initiative which will ultimately save lives and reduce the incidence of childhood asthma in California.