In collaboration with the Delaware Division of Public Health (DDPH), Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Delaware (Highmark Delaware), DuPont, and Nemours Children’s Health, Healthy Communities Delaware announced today it is investing $2.29 million in Delaware’s most underserved neighborhoods. Each investment supports aspects of the “Vital Conditions for Health & Well-Being,” also promoted by the National Department of Health & Human Services.
“These funds directly empower resident-led solutions that break down systemic barriers and enable communities to thrive,” said Kate Dupont Phillips, Executive Director of Healthy Communities Delaware. “Our unique approach collectively works toward ensuring that all people in Delaware thrive, no exceptions.”
HCD is a network of communities and investor partners, managed as a collaboration among the Delaware Community Foundation, DDPH and the University of Delaware. The partners employ a long-term, multi-year approach to support communities to build capacity, improve the Vital Conditions, and create sustainable infrastructure.
“By prioritizing equity and aligning resources to address the Vital Conditions, our aim is to foster sustainable solutions that enhance well-being and diminish disparities across Delaware,” said Tesha Quail, Deputy Director, Delaware Division of Public Health.
As a public/private partnership, HCD supports its partners’ goals, such as Highmark Delaware’s objectives to foster resilience and equity for all individuals and families across the state.
“Highmark is committed to innovative solutions that address community health challenges. We believe in the power of public/private partnerships to drive sustainable change. This replicable approach fosters collaboration, supports evolving community needs, and ensures relevant and timely impact, reflecting our dedication to improving health outcomes,” said Nick Moriello, President, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Delaware.
For Nemours, the focus underscores their focus on the health and wellbeing of children in Delaware.
“Through collaboration and collective funding, HCD enhances our efforts to address the conditions that significantly impact children’s lives, ensuring the next generation has the opportunity to thrive,” said Yvette Santiago, Director of Community Engagement of Nemours.
Investments in 15 Communities Across All Three Counties
HCD currently funds initiatives in 15 communities with 21 community-based organizations and coalition partners. Each community receives annual investment and support to advance their Vital Conditions goals. Organizations receiving investment include the following.
New Castle County
Be Ready Community Development Corporation – $134,246
Central Baptist Community Development Corporation – $76,250
Cornerstone West Community Development Corporation – $198,942
Habitat for Humanity of New Castle County – $100,000
Jefferson Street Center, Inc. – $164,684
Northeast Community Development Corporation – $301,714
Route 9 Community Development Corporation – $206,400
Southbridge Community Development Corporation – $197,800
Wilmington Alliance – $115,000
Latin American Community Center, Inc. – $77,352
Kent County
Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity, Inc. – $140,163
NeighborGood Partners – $277,496
Sussex County
Children & Families First Delaware, Inc. – $96,218
La Esperanza Inc. – $110,970
The Springboard Collaborative – $100,000
