Continued support reflects ongoing commitment to health equity
Atlanta, GA (July 10, 2024) — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues its partnership with the Conference of National Black Churches (CNBC), committing $3 million in Fiscal Year 2024. This marks a significant step forward in the ongoing work to prevent COVID-19 and the pursuit of health equity for Black Americans. Renewal of this funding comes as the nation marks the fourth anniversary of the pandemic’s onset in the United States, which had a disproportionate impact on Black Americans.
“Many may feel that the pandemic is over, but COVID-19 and the devastating impacts of the pandemic remain clear and present dangers to quality of life for Black Americans every day,” said CNBC Chairman Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson. “We are committed to continuing work that makes a tangible difference in the lives of our communities. Our fight against COVID-19 is part of a broader fight for health equity – a basic human right that all Americans deserve, and we are excited to partner with CDC in this mission.”
COVID-19 cases surged nationwide as we entered 2024. Black Americans are more likely to struggle with comorbidities – including diabetes, heart disease, and obesity – that make a COVID-19 infection much more dangerous. Health disparity has long been a concern within the United States, with Black Americans facing significant obstacles in accessing quality healthcare. These and other factors make apparent the need for targeted health initiatives and support within underserved communities.
In response to these challenges, CDC’s funding to CNBC underscores a shared commitment to bolstering health services and educational outreach within Black communities across the United States. The funding will support a range of initiatives designed to enhance COVID-19 vaccination and education efforts, directly serving CNBC’s congregations and the communities they serve.
CNBC, with its historic deep roots and wide reach within Black communities, is uniquely positioned to lead these efforts. Through this funding, CNBC will work closely with local congregations to implement culturally sensitive and accessible health programs, focusing on vaccination, education, outreach, and the elimination of barriers to disease prevention.
The partnership between CDC and CNBC offers a path forward to addressing historic inequalities. By focusing on the needs of Black Americans and addressing the root causes of health disparities, the two Atlanta-based organizations strive to build a healthier future for all.
About the Conference of National Black Churches (CNBC):
The Conference of National Black Churches (CNBC) is the premiere public policy and social justice expression of the Black ecclesiastical denominations CNBC represents in America. CNBC is comprised of the national leadership of the largest historically Black denominations in America: The African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME), African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church (AMEZ), Christian Methodist Episcopal Church (CME), Church of God in Christ, Inc. (COGIC), National Baptist Convention of America USA, Inc (NBCUSA) and the Progressive National Baptist Convention (PNBC); representing more than 80% of African American Christians across this nation with a combined membership of over 25 million people and 31,000 congregations.
