Racial Inequities in COVID-19

racial inequities

You may have seen the recent reports in the news that COVID-19 is disproportionately impacting the Black community. This news leaves me feeling heartbroken. But, sadly, I’m not surprised that racial health disparities are being exacerbated by this pandemic.

Communities that have historically been marginalized because of race, economic status, immigration status, or other aspects of identity, are always the hardest hit during any major crises. This is because they have been deprived of the resources, access, services, and political power that contribute to health and wellbeing. And these historical oppressions continue to this day.

Our colleagues in the programs we support around the country and our school-based program Healthy and Ready to Learn are seeing a flashpoint of these inequities. They are showing up in how families are able to protect themselves from the virus, their access to food, healthcare, and resources during this crisis, and their children’s ability to learn.

“Many of the inequities families were already experiencing are being magnified with this crisis. As fantastic as the push to virtual learning has been, it assumes that all kids and families are privileged with access to technology, which couldn’t be further from the truth. In the schools Healthy and Ready to Learn serves, we are seeing food insecurity and financial instability with a lot of families working unstable jobs already, and their employment being threatened because their work is not being deemed essential. On the other hand, some of my more affluent friends have hired nannies to help their children with school while they also work at home. Communities that have historically experienced inequities are experiencing this crisis very differently.”
– Ginelle Wynter
PS 36 Senior Site Manager, CHF Healthy and Ready to Learn Initiative

These facts are tragic, deeply troubling, and demand action. Eliminating health inequities for children and families is why we exist.

We are in a crisis that is affecting us all. But at this moment, those most vulnerable to the impacts of COVID-19 need support in all areas of their lives to keep themselves and their children safe. These needs are urgent—your help can make difference:

  • $35 can provide a week of public transportation for a parent who must still commute to work.
  • $50 can provide formula for an infant for one month.
  • $100 can provide one hour of remote mental health counseling for a child to help them cope with disruptions brought on by this pandemic.

Our COVID-19 Community Emergency Response & Recovery Fund is responding directly to the needs of families and children living in communities that are disproportionately impacted by this crisis.

Support Children & Families Most Vulnerable to COVID-19