In November, I am trying to make more time for gratefulness. As 2021, comes to a close, I want to celebrate all of our partners who help make the RHC a success.
We are grateful to all our partners who joined us to educate our black and brown communities about Covid-19 through a collective impact initiative called PrepareSTL. PrepareSTL recruited 193 canvassers to successfully post flyers and posters on safety precautions for Covid-19 in 688 locations across 20 target zip codes in the St. Louis region. Through partnerships with over 160 community organizations, PrepareSTL:
- Held 5 mask giveaway events with more than 900 people in attendance
- Assembled and distributed 100,000 personal protection equipment (PPE) kits
- Held 54 mobile outreach giveaway events for public and senior housing developments
- Distributed 400,000 cloth and disposable masks and supplies
- Held a summit to address community healing after the Covid-19 pandemic
The RHC thanks every organization, advocate and individual that worked to make Medicaid expansion a reality for the State of Missouri. For the past ten years, Gateway to Better Health has provided a safety-net for our uninsured St. Louis residents until we could have a better, more sustainable option in our community. Thanks to our partners at our local hospitals and community health centers who have helped Gateway provide:
- Access to coverage for more than 65,000 otherwise uninsured St. Louis area residents
- More than 300,000 primary care and dental visits
- Over 1.5 million medications to manage chronic conditions and other diseases
- Nearly 60,000 specialty care visits
- More than 320,000 diagnostic tests, procedures and ancillary services
- More than 32,000 urgent care visits
I would like to thank our governing board, advisory boards and community partners who provided their voice and input into the new strategic framework for the St. Louis Regional Health Commission. As we continue to transition the Gateway program, we are looking forward to 2022 to release our new branding and vision that centers equity, relationships and accountability.
Lastly, I would like to thank the RHC staff team. Without them, none of this would be possible.
Gratefulness is one of my favorite tools for self-care. After taking a moment to reflect on some of the things we have been able to accomplish this year, I am re-energized for the work ahead. Hopefully, you can take some time this holiday season to care for yourself by practicing gratitude. Happy Holidays!
Angela Fleming Brown
CEO, St. Louis Regional Health Commission