Public Health
Providence offers multiple highly regarded hospitals and medical centers at the forefront of the healthcare industry and innovation. However, world-class care does not adequately extend to every individual, family, or community. Already unbalanced and struggling, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the racial and socioeconomic gaps in healthcare access. Communities affected by gun violence, unsafe or inadequate residences, food insecurity, and higher rates of substance abuse disorder fail to get the help they need from top-of-the-line medical institutions across the city. One of John's primary goals is to expand access to all communities and ensure proper healthcare for families who need and deserve the benefits of our public health services.
What We've Accomplished Together
Facilitated COVID-19 Information
• Sent daily newsletters in the height of the pandemic to keep folks informed about the Governor's executive orders and other pertinent information regarding the pandemic.
Got Shots In Arms
• Did significant outreach to ensure that the Ward 1 community could get vaccinated against COVID-19 as quickly as possible.
Helped Address Food Insecurity & Access to Fresh Produce
• Launched robust community partnership with the Friends of Cabral Park, Providence Partnership for Parks spearheaded by Helene Miller, and iProv Fellow Eleanor Pereboom to provide a safe and reliable food source for the Fox Point community. The program is especially designed for senior citizens who live adjacent to the Park, and the partnership aims to develop community-driven food justice in Fox Point.
• Once the pandemic began, the seniors' need for food access came into sharp focus and the group had the idea to use the park and their Park Friends Group as platforms to address their food insecurity. Seniors were subsidized and were able to use their SNAP benefits to participate in this program.
Launched "Neighbors Helping Neighbors" Initiative In The Height Of The COVID-19 Pandemic
• With the help of Ward 1 resident Dr. Julia Carlson, launched a "Neighbors Helping Neighbors" initiative of over 150+ volunteers who helped with transportation, direct assistance, delivery of prescriptions and groceries, someone to talk to in the height of the pandemic.
The Work We Still Have To Do
Providence offers multiple highly regarded hospitals and medical centers at the forefront of the healthcare industry and innovation. However, world-class care does not adequately extend to every individual, family, or community. Already unbalanced and struggling, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the racial and socioeconomic gaps in healthcare access. Communities affected by gun violence, unsafe or inadequate residences, food insecurity, and higher rates of substance abuse disorder fail to get the help they need from top-of-the-line medical institutions across the city. One of John's primary goals is to expand access to all communities and ensure proper healthcare for families who need and deserve the benefits of our public health services.