Governor Kathy Hochul has announced an additional $6.5 million in funding for Choose Healthy Life, a program aimed at improving health services and access in underserved communities through the Black church network. This investment brings the total support from Governor Hochul’s administration to over $20 million since she took office.
The funding will help expand Choose Healthy Life’s efforts across New York State, with a focus on reaching more families and providing critical health services. Last year, the program received $5.9 million to extend its operations beyond New York City, resulting in 10 more funded churches serving upstate communities.
Choose Healthy Life was established in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic and now supports 120 churches in 13 states. New York leads with 30 participating churches. The organization partners with United Way of New York City and Quest Diagnostics to provide free comprehensive health screenings and preventative care within community settings.
Governor Hochul stated, “Black churches are the cornerstone of our communities, providing trusted spaces for connection, support, and care. By continuing to invest in Choose Healthy Life, we are ensuring that critical health services reach even more families across New York State.”
Since its inception, Choose Healthy Life’s network has engaged over 200,000 people statewide through more than 3,500 wellness events and delivered over 20,000 comprehensive health screenings and vaccinations. More than 14,000 individuals have been screened for social determinants of health and referred to relevant services.
Debra Fraser-Howze, Founder and Board Chair of Choose Healthy Life said: “Governor Hochul’s continued investment in Choose Healthy Life reflects a deep commitment to addressing the health challenges facing Black New Yorkers. Through a unique public-private partnership with the State, Black churches, and Quest Diagnostics, we are able to deliver high-quality, no-cost health services directly into trusted community settings—expanding access, improving outcomes, and saving lives across New York.”
Grace Bonilla, President and CEO of United Way of New York City added: “We are incredibly proud to have served as the implementation partner for Choose Healthy Life since its inception. United Way of New York City has a longstanding track record of incubating and scaling high-impact initiatives that meet pressing community needs. This partnership reflects what is possible when nonprofits, community-based organizations, and government work in true collaboration to drive innovation and address complex problems. It has been an honor to stand alongside Choose Healthy Life and Governor Hochul to ensure that New York families have dignified access to the care and support they deserve.”
Rev. Kimberly L. Williams, President & CEO of Choose Healthy Life said: “This funding commitment and transition mark a new chapter for Choose Healthy Life. Governor Hochul’s continued investment affirms the impact of this work, and our partnership with United Way of New York City laid the foundation for long-term sustainability. Together we are strengthening the bridge between science and the trusted relationships of the Black church to deliver meaningful results across New York.”
Bishop Leah D. Daughtry Co-Chair of CHL Clergy Council stated: “For generations,the Black church has been a trusted place of leadership,caring,and refuge.With support from Governor Hochul,and United Way Of NYC that trust continues guide how healthcare reaches our communities.CHL is honored build on legacy.”
Choose Healthy Life operates as a nonprofit organization focused on improving public health outcomes by training faith-based Health Navigators who serve within their congregations.The group reports hosting over 11 000 events,supplying self-test kits,vaccinating,and screening tens-of-thousands since it began.For further information about their programs visit choosehealthylife.org.
United Way Of NYC works collaboratively across government,business,and local partners,striving toward better opportunity,equity,and prosperity citywide.More about their mission can be found at unitedwaynyc.org.