News

Eskenazi Health Foundation is pleased to receive significant funding from Cummins Inc.’s racial equity program, Cummins Advocating for Racial Equity (CARE), marking a transformative step toward enhancing health and racial equity across Indianapolis. This funding, allocated to the Beyond Barriers Campaign, will directly support the expansion of Eskenazi Health’s Community Weaver program in the Northeast Corridor Health Equity Zone.

Cummins has a long-standing commitment to social justice. Launched in 2020, CARE aims to address racial inequities in the United States through initiatives focused on dismantling systemic racism and promoting equity and inclusion. In 2023, CARE partnered with Eskenazi Health to tackle food insecurity in Indianapolis by funding the Fresh for You Market (FFYM) on Wheels program, which continues to provide nutritious and affordable food options to underserved neighborhoods.

Building on the success of the FFYM on Wheels program, CARE is furthering Cummins’ commitment by investing in the Community Weaver program in Eskenazi Health’s Northeast Corridor Health Equity Zone. Community Weavers, who are trusted residents from within the local community, have a deep understanding of the everyday barriers to health and racial equity the neighborhood faces. Community Weavers play a vital role in building authentic relationships with residents and connecting them to essential resources that help them overcome these challenges.

The CARE grant will enhance the program by equipping each Community Weaver with the necessary tools to make a lasting impact. The Community Weaver Tool Kit includes resources such as food vouchers and transportation assistance for those in need. It also provides each Community Weaver with customized training, language competency and mental health first aid, enabling them to effectively address high-need situations while building trust and fostering deeper community involvement.

The Northeast Corridor Health Equity Zone is a vibrant community, known for its strong leadership and institutions that play a crucial role in supporting the well-being of residents. However, the area faces considerable challenges: Eighty-five percent of residents in the Northeast Corridor are people of color, with over one-third experiencing food insecurity or housing instability. The community also struggles with disproportionately high rates of violence and unemployment. In light of these pressing issues, the Community Weaver program is essential for neighborhoods like the Northeast Corridor. Eskenazi Health Thomas & Arlene Grande Campus and the United Northeast Community Development Corporation serve as trusted anchors for the area, offering much needed resources and hope.

“The CARE grant will significantly enhance the work of Eskenazi Health Community Weavers, allowing them to connect more community members to vital resources—ultimately fostering healthier, longer and better lives,” says Kerry Dinneen, senior major gifts officer of the Eskenazi Health Foundation.

Cummins’ generous support will significantly strengthen the Community Weaver program in the Northeast Corridor, advancing health and racial equity across Indianapolis. As an early supporter, Cummins plays a crucial role in launching the Health Equity Zones by empowering the specialized and unique Community Weaver workforce. Their funding will allow Eskenazi Health to evaluate the program’s impact, potentially leading to more resources for other Health Equity Zones. It will also provide vital support to enhance the program’s infrastructure and test new tools to maximize the Community Weavers’ effectiveness. Eskenazi Health Foundation is deeply appreciative of Cummins’ continued support and generosity, which are key to creating a healthier, more equitable future for Indianapolis residents.