Ponce De Leon Foundation 2018 to 2023 Report

Little Sisters of the Assumption Family Health Service, Inc.

The enduring COVID-19 pandemic over the last two years has devastated LSA’s low-income and immigrant community financially, physically, and mentally, and exacerbated health inequities. And today, the need for support is more critical than ever. As of early 2022, demand for LSA’s food pantry, community health, and advocacy services continues to grow, with LSA serving about three times the number of people we served before

COVID, averaging approximately 2,500 people each month. This increased community need is only further amplified due to other local community-run pantries and community health clinics shuttering their doors due to community health sta ff shortages, volunteer shortages, rises in prices, and lack of funding. The generosity of our supporters, and our deep relationship with the East Harlem community, has enabled LSA to adapt and respond nimbly to the evolving needs of our community throughout the pandemic, and continue expanding and strengthening our services to combat the most pressing health and social inequities in our community. Because of COVID, LSA collaborated with Mount Sinai Hospital on a community needs assessment to identify specific needs of community members. Food and access to services were identified as the top two priorities. Mental health and general health were also identified as priorities.

Morris Heights Health Center

The Achieving Diabetes Excellence (ADE) program addresses the increase in uncontrolled diabetes and the rise in diabetic lower limb amputations in low-income and underserved populations in the Morris Heights Health Center (MHHC) community. ADE aims to improve outcomes for poorly managed diabetic patients, reengage existing diabetic patients, and close gaps in care within the MHHC patient population and broaderBronx community.

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