02905/02907 HEZ Design Day: Advancing Food Access and Social Connectedness in South Providence

On October 17, the 02905/02907 Health Equity Zones (HEZs), Family Services of Rhode Island and West Elmwood Development Corporation, with the support of CTC-RI and RIDOH, brought together approximately 50 residents, community-based organizations, policymakers, and experts to collaboratively address critical issues in the 02905 and 02907 communities. The Design Day, part of the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) Accelerator grant, focused on gathering input to identify existing resources, gaps, and opportunities for enhancing food access and social connectedness in these communities. Attendees engaged in meaningful discussions to better understand the unique challenges facing residents and brainstorm solutions that can create lasting positive change. 

 The day’s activities were centered on developing strategies to improve food security and foster stronger community connections in South Providence and 02905/02907 communities. The input collected during the Design Day will guide the development of targeted activities and initiatives aimed at addressing these social determinants of health in an accelerator plan.

Funding for this was provided by RIDOH.