HARTFORD, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Aetna Foundation today announced that it has awarded community grants to 23 nonprofit organizations as part of its Cultivating Healthy Communities initiative. This program is designed to promote healthy eating and active living, strengthen health equity and advance innovations that make it possible for people to have more healthy days. The projects will benefit communities by improving health indicators such as access to healthy foods, increased physical activity, reduced incidences of bullying, more spaces for walking and biking safely and more.
“At the Aetna Foundation, we know that where you live has a profound impact on how you live”
“At the Aetna Foundation, we know that where you live has a profound impact on how you live,” said Garth Graham, MD, MPH, president of the Aetna Foundation. “These grantees have a track record of positively impacting what happens in schools, child care centers, parks, corner stores and kitchen tables by giving youth and adults the skills and information to make good choices. What’s most exciting is that these grants put the power to stay healthy in the hands of community residents—creating sustainable change that can improve health outcomes nationwide.”
This funding addresses the need to improve opportunities for all Americans—regardless of income, education or ethnic background—to take an active role in living healthier lives. In 2014, 14 percent of American households faced food insecurity, and more than 23 million Americans lived in food deserts — rural or urban neighborhoods more than one mile away from the nearest grocery store. A total of $937,000 supports projects that expand healthy food choices for families.
In addition, children who are perceived as different, or socially isolated, are more likely to be bullied. This puts youth inunderserved communities at greater risk of depression, decreased academic achievement and health complaints. Grantees across 12 states will work with youth and adults on these and other critical topics that impact their community. Awards for anti-bullying projects total $400,000.
Since 2014, the Aetna Foundation’s Cultivating Healthy Communities grant program has awarded more than $11.4 million in grants and sponsorships. Cultivating Healthy Communities is a key part of the Foundation’s overall multi-million dollar commitment to building a healthier world, community by community.
About the Aetna Foundation
The Aetna Foundationis the independent charitable and philanthropic arm of Aetna (NYSE:AET). Since 1980, Aetna and the Aetna Foundation have contributed more than $465 million in grants and sponsorships. As a national health foundation, we promote wellness, health, and access to high-quality health care for everyone. This work is enhanced by the time and commitment of Aetna employees, who have volunteered 3.8 million hours since 2003. For more information, visitwww.aetnafoundation.org.
