To elevate Michigan to a high-performing state, Detroit – and all of its great neighborhoods and communities — has to be central to that discussion.
Not just downtown or Midtown. But all of Detroit.
As state leaders gather on Mackinac Island to discuss the future of our state as One Michigan, we also must talk about partnering with residents to create a successful, thriving One Detroit.
Over Blue Cross’ 80-year history, we’ve seen time and again that the path to success starts with partnership. That’s why, on our 80th anniversary, we’re recognizing and thanking our many partners who collaborate with us to create a healthy, vibrant state for everyone.
In Detroit, our partnerships have included many community-based programs and initiatives to address some of the barriers that impact our residents’ health and safety in neighborhoods. Working with the city of Detroit, businesses and other partners, we helped fund EMS vehicles and patrol cars to strengthen public safety.
Our 5-year partnership with the faith-based community includes working with leaders and church members to improve physical activity. Through the Faith in Wellness Blues Community challenge, we connect with more than 30 faith-based organizations and 1,000 people who implement healthier habits.
We’re also partnering with residents to address the social determinants of health by investing $100,000 in DLIVE (Detroit Life is Valuable Everyday) to establish an evidence-based violence intervention program at Detroit Receiving Hospital. The Alzheimer’s Association, the Michigan Parkinson Foundation and the Kirk Gibson Foundation are working with us to help increase awareness and support for those devastating diseases impacting communities statewide. And together with the American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, MIU Men’s Health Foundation and the American Diabetes Association of Michigan, we offer residents simple ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
We’ve also continually worked with legislators and advocated for our citizens, including efforts to expand Medicaid so more people have access. Through Blue Cross Complete, we work with residents to create healthier lifestyles and listen to their needs. Our outreach includes more than 40,000 door-to-door visits across our state and over 600 community events. In Detroit, Blue Cross Complete annually sponsors a community Baby Shower and Health Fair. More than 340 residents attended the most recent event at the Northwest Activities Center and received many needed items, including car seats, diaper bags, diapers and more. And to support residents in Detroit’s neighborhoods, Blue Cross has committed $5 million to support inclusive development through the city’s Strategic Neighborhood and Affordable Housing Leverage Funds. We look forward to the ongoing community conversations about programs to enhance communities throughout the city.
It starts with partnership.
By partnering, we can create a stronger One Detroit and One Michigan for everyone.
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