In an ongoing effort to bolster health equity, Governor Kathy Hochul announced a substantial $6.5 million boost to fund Choose Healthy Life (CHL), a program anchored in Black churches devoted to extending health services to underserved communities. This marks a significant increase from last year's $5.9 million investment, aiming to bring the Governor's total backing to over $20 million since she took office. According to a statement from Governor Hochul, "Black churches are the cornerstone of our communities, providing trusted spaces for connection, support, and care. By continuing to invest in Choose Healthy Life, we are ensuring that critical health services reach even more families across New York State," as per the Governor’s Press Office.
The program's expansion emerged during the COVID pandemic and has flourished to encompass 120 churches across 13 states, with New York boasting the largest number at 30. With this initiative, over 200,000 New Yorkers have been engaged, and more than 3,500 wellness events were hosted, including the provision of extensive health screenings, vaccinations, and preventative services. It's clear that the goal is to, significantly increase access to health resources in Black communities, a mission that has seen great stride thanks to partnerships with organizations like United Way of New York City and Quest Diagnostics. Choose Healthy Life President and CEO Rev. Kimberly L. Williams said on Governor’s Press Office, "This funding commitment and transition mark a new chapter for Choose Healthy Life. Governor Hochul’s continued investment affirms the impact of this work, and our partnership with United Way of New York City laid the foundation for long-term sustainability," as mentioned in their work alongside Governor Hochul.
United Way of New York City, standing as a staunch implantation partner from CHL's inception, expressed pride in contributing to the scaling of impactful initiatives. Their collaboration exemplifies what's achievable when non-profits, community-based entities, and the government operate in synchrony to spark innovation and tackle complex challenges. Indeed, President and CEO Grace Bonilla told the Governor’s Press Office, "It has been an honor to stand alongside Choose Healthy Life and Governor Hochul to ensure that New York families have dignified access to the care and support they deserve."
Further underscoring the unique position Black churches play, Choose Healthy Life Founder and Board Chair Debra Fraser-Howze remarked on the Governor's "deep commitment to addressing the health challenges facing Black New Yorkers," as mentioned on the Governor’s Press Office. Owing to the seamless public-private partnership, high-quality, no-cost health services are administered within reliable community settings, paving the way to improve outcomes and save lives.
