Working to Eliminate Health Inequities
Cone Health Foundation invests in community-driven solutions. And, we advocate for systems and policy change at the local and state levels. We work in partnership with community-based organizations, civic and legislative leaders, and the philanthropic community, centering the voices and experiences of those in Greensboro who have been historically marginalized.
Social Drivers of Health
The health and well-being of our community depends not just on access to health care, but also on the social drivers of health. In fact, research shows that up to 80 percent of an individual’s health depends on these factors. As we look to a future in which health inequities no longer exist in Greensboro, our grantmaking is focused not just on treating symptoms, but on impacting root causes.
We’re making this shift incrementally over time as we learn alongside our community, sharing and interpreting community data and stories together. This work is complemented by convening important community conversations, organizing coordinated action, and advocating together at the local and state levels.
Our Priority Areas
We are currently focused on addressing five social drivers of health:
Access to Health Care
Healthy communities require that all people have access to affordable health care services. Primary health care is especially important, providing preventative care and ensuring diseases are detected and treated. We’re addressing common barriers to care like lack of insurance, while increasing care access and care continuity for all community members.
Healthy Food
Availability of healthy, nutritious food is an important social driver of health. Having limited or uncertain access to food, known as food insecurity, is linked to poor health and increased levels of chronic illness. It also impacts mental health. Promoting access to healthy food for all supports a healthier Greensboro.
Education
People who have access to quality education lead more fulfilling lives, grow personally, and give back to their communities. Education also makes it easier to find living-wage employment, navigate health care access, and live in a safe environment. Literacy programs and digital connectivity are key parts of the solution.
Safe and Healthy Housing
The affordability, quality, safety, and stability of housing are key drivers of health. Homes that are free of environmental contaminants and neighborhoods where it is safe to play outside and walk to the store promote well-being. Ensuring community members have housing that supports their health is foundational to health equity.
Economic Mobility
There is a strong and intergenerational connection between income and health. Those with higher levels of poverty experience worse health outcomes, as do their children, and their children’s children. Furthering economic mobility, through initiatives like financial literacy, financial counseling, and more, is vital to our community’s health and well-being.
COMMUNITY LEARNING
Greensboro Community Report
We are developing a community-informed report that highlights the gaps and opportunities faced by nonprofits in Greensboro in our collective work toward health equity.
