“Community health centers play a vital role, look at the patients who walk through their doors,” Hassan said during the Aug. 10 event. “I have had the pleasure of watching Harbor Care grow and evolve into what it is today.”

Hassan said she was able to pass legislation that eliminates hidden medical fees as well as the Inflation Reduction Act.

“This legislation stands up to Big Pharma,” she said.

Passed in August 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act lowered the cost of home energy bills and prescription drugs. It also reduced health insurance premiums for New Hampshire residents who have healthcare plans through the Affordable Care Act. As a result, Hassan said those residents are saving almost $1,000 per year.

Kuster said it is critical to offer as many services as possible from the same healthcare facility.

“Care is not siloed,” she said. “These are holistic issues.”

Kuster said Harbor Care has achieved the goal of maximum service by providing housing, veteran services, addiction treatment and healthcare all under the same roof at 45 High St.

“What you’re doing here is a model,” she said.

In May, Kuster co-sponsored the Health Center Service Expansion and Provider Shortage Reduction Act. The bill would increase annual funding for mental and behavioral health services from $4 billion to $5.15 billion.

Founded in 1980, Harbor Care uses a sliding fee scale based on income to treat anyone who is in need regardless of their insurance status. In 2022 alone, Harbor Care provided treatment to more than 22,000 patients.

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