The recently released report from the Erie County Department of Health brought into sharper view the realities of health inequity facing our region. The key findings underscored the importance of addressing social determinants of health – those circumstances largely out of a person’s controlthat include issues of affordability along with access to grocery stores, health screenings, and safe spaces for physical activity.
Stuart Angert is the Chairperson of the Independent Health Foundation Board of Directors.
Among the stark statistics from the survey is the link between financial and physical health. Of those surveyed who said they had “not enough money,” 21% listed obesity and 31% listed high blood pressure as a health condition. Additionally, for those who do not have their own personal vehicle, 57% report facing challenges in getting adequate exercise and 55% report challenges in eating a healthy diet.
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It is the laser focus of the Independent Health Foundation to expand access, thus reducing the inequities that currently exist. The Foundation is leading the way with evidenced-based programs that are moving the needle for families across our region.
The recently released Independent Health Foundation Annual Community Report for 2023 demonstrates how these metrics-driven programs are increasing health screenings, improving nutrition, and engaging children and adults as they take ownership of their own health.
For example, Soccer for Success goes beyond merely funding a sports program. Of the nearly 2,500 children who participated last year, 92% reported feeling safe and supported at the program, while 77% improved their social and emotional learning competencies.
To address needs of new mothers, infants and young children, the Foundation launched the Growing Up Strong program in health centers and care clinics, providing a collaborative approach to more effectively connect families with support services. In the first full year of the program, more than 400 mothers received depression screenings and the appropriate referrals, that not only helped women access critical services, but also helped to destigmatize maternal mental health issues.
Further addressing barriers to access, the Independent Health Foundation continued to meet people where they live. Good for the Neighborhood programs, held at local community centers, helped more than 650 participants take charge of their own well-being through free health screenings, including blood pressure and cholesterol checks. Additionally, with the intervention of the Foundation’s nutritionist, Healthy Options at Home not only delivered meal kits and recipes, but taught each family, as a family unit, how to prepare healthy meals. As a result, 90% of families reported feeling confident cooking healthy meals on a budget after participating in the program.
From the annual report, even more encouraging is the emphasis on community partners. One hundred percent of every dollar the Foundation raises is dedicated to providing programming that positively impacts the lives of our neighbors in both urban and rural settings, for moms, kids, families, and seniors.
It requires the efforts of the entire community to collaborate, and impact the health trajectory of our region. The approach to programming from the Independent Health Foundation is an integral part of that effort, and it continues to make a difference for our entire region.
Stuart Angert is the Chairperson of the Independent Health Foundation Board of Directors.