(March 12, 2008) Washington, D.C. - In recognition of the congresswoman's longstanding advocacy on behalf of community health care clinics and the uninsured, the Community Clinic Association of Los Angeles County, on behalf of the National Association of Community Health Centers, presented Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-34) with its 2008 Distinguished Community Health Defender Award for her "commitment to strengthen and preserve access to quality health care for America's medically underserved."  The national organization also recognized the congresswoman three times previously with its 2007 and 2005 Distinguished Community Health Defender Awards and its 2000 Distinguished Community Health Champion Award.  From her seat on the Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Subcommittee of Appropriations, the congresswoman advocates on behalf of the federal funding needs of the community clinics and health centers. The independent not-for-profit providers of comprehensive primary health care services serve the working poor, the uninsured, medically high-risk and vulnerable populations, regardless of a person's ability to pay.  In the photo, the congresswoman (shown holding the award) stands with members of the Community Clinic Association of Los Angeles County.