September 26, 2023- In Houston, people who live south of downtown in the Sunnyside neighborhood can expect to live an average of 21 years less than those who live just nine miles away in the more affluent Bellaire community. This life expectancy gap is nearly equivalent to the difference in life expectancy between low-income and high-income countries. The science tells us that physical conditions in which people live explain in part why some are healthier than others.
To sustainably remove the social and economic barriers preventing access to equitable health for everyone everywhere, the American Heart Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, is opening its Social Impact Funds to entrepreneurs and organizations across Greater Houston for the first time.
These Funds exist to accelerate access to capital for evidenced-based, sustainable, entrepreneurial solutions within communities that help people live longer, healthier lives. Local organizations actively working to break down social and economic barriers to health equity including economic empowerment, healthy food access, housing, recidivism, access to quality healthcare, transportation and educational opportunities are encouraged to apply for funding.