BLACK HEALTH EQUITY COALITION OF FREDERICK
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FREDERICK, MD, April 4, 2024 – The Black Health Equity Coalition of Frederick (known as Black Equity) proudly announces the reception of $153,000 in grants to drive new initiatives aimed at eliminating health disparities in the Black community. This transformative funding, totaling $128,000 from the CDC Foundation and additional support from the Ausherman Family Foundation and the Delaplaine Foundation, will empower the coalition to implement critical infrastructure and programs to address pressing health issues affecting Black residents in Frederick County in areas such as Black maternal health, youth mental health, primary care utilization, and conducting Frederick County’s first comprehensive Black health survey.
Dr. Denise Rollins, Executive Director of the Whole Heart Center and the project’s lead applicant, notes, “This funding is a game changer for Frederick because it places funding and strategizing in the hands of the people impacted most. It’s appropriate that we’re announcing this during National Minority Health Month.”
Black Equity stemmed from organizations leveraging a 2023 Frederick County grant to facilitate discussions on Black women’s health, leading to the creation of a related video series set for release in 2024. The coalition comprises nine dedicated organizers, including Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Chi Theta Omega Chapter, Asbury United Methodist Church, BlackFrederick.com, Black Mamas Building Bridges, Frederick County Health Dept., Keep Still Cares, What is Black?, Whole Heart Grief & Life Resource Center, and Women Solve.
Government partners, including Dr. Shelley Choo, Bureau of Maternal & Child Health Director at the MD Dept. of Health, Dr. Barbara Brookmyer, Frederick Co.’s Chief Health Officer, and Danielle Haskin, Director of the Equity Office for the Frederick Co. Health Department will play integral roles in supporting Black Equity’s initiatives.
Per Ms. Haskin, “Black Equity’s initiatives are a driving force for health equity, aligning with broader national goals and local agendas. Their unique insights are key to health improvements addressing longstanding disparities and ensuring intentional inclusion. This commitment extends beyond the Black community, promising a healthier future for the entire County.”
Residents are encouraged to provide their email addresses to stay informed about survey updates and community news on our website. For more information: www.blackequityfrederick.org, contact team@blackequityfrederick.org.
About Our Organization:
The Black Health Equity Coalition of Frederick is dedicated to eliminating health disparities in the Black community.
Contact:
Denise Rollins, PhD, Black Equity Lead Applicant
team@blackequityfrederick.org