About Long beach building healthy communities
Long Beach Building Healthy Communities: Creating a Healthier Community for All
Long Beach Building Healthy Communities (LB BHC) is a non-profit organization that aims to create a healthier community for all residents of Long Beach, California. The organization was founded in 2010 as part of the statewide Building Healthy Communities initiative, which seeks to improve health outcomes and reduce health disparities in California's most disadvantaged communities.
LB BHC works towards its mission by focusing on six key areas: education, economic development, environmental justice, health access and prevention, housing and land use, and youth development. By addressing these areas comprehensively and collaboratively with community partners, LB BHC aims to create lasting change that will benefit all residents of Long Beach.
Education
LB BHC recognizes the importance of education in creating healthy communities. The organization works with local schools to promote healthy eating habits among students through programs like Farm-to-School. LB BHC also advocates for policies that support equitable access to quality education for all students.
Economic Development
LB BHC believes that economic development can be a powerful tool for improving community health. The organization supports small businesses owned by people of color and low-income individuals through programs like the Small Business Accelerator Program. LB BHC also advocates for policies that promote living-wage jobs and affordable housing.
Environmental Justice
Environmental justice is an important issue in Long Beach due to its history as an industrial hub. LB BHC works with community members to advocate for clean air and water standards that protect public health. The organization also promotes sustainable transportation options like biking and walking.
Health Access & Prevention
Access to healthcare is critical for maintaining good health outcomes. LB BHC works with local clinics and hospitals to ensure that all residents have access to quality healthcare services regardless of their ability to pay or immigration status. Additionally, the organization promotes preventative measures like regular check-ups and vaccinations.
Housing & Land Use
Affordable housing is a key component of a healthy community. LB BHC advocates for policies that promote affordable housing options for all residents, including those experiencing homelessness. The organization also works to ensure that land use decisions are made with the health and well-being of the community in mind.
Youth Development
LB BHC recognizes that investing in youth is critical for creating a healthier future. The organization supports programs like after-school activities and mentorship programs to help young people develop skills and build positive relationships. LB BHC also advocates for policies that support youth development, such as increased funding for education and job training programs.
In conclusion, Long Beach Building Healthy Communities is an organization dedicated to creating a healthier community for all residents of Long Beach through comprehensive and collaborative efforts across six key areas: education, economic development, environmental justice, health access and prevention, housing and land use, and youth development. By working with community partners to address these issues comprehensively, LB BHC aims to create lasting change that will benefit all members of the Long Beach community.