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April 8, 2025
Kingston, NY –– RUPCO shares its concern about the termination of a $249,728 CDC COVID-19 Health Disparities Grant, originally intended to support community wellness initiatives. Administered by the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) and Health Research Inc. (HRI), this funding was part of the National Initiative to Address COVID-19 Health Disparities Among High-Risk and Underserved Populations, including racial and ethnic minorities and rural communities. This grant was terminated in some of the latest federal funding reductions that jeopardize crucial programs that serve vulnerable populations.
These grant funds were specifically allocated to address chronic disease management and the social determinants of health by expanding access to community-based wellness resources. RUPCO has been utilizing these funds to implement essential initiatives that promote health literacy, self-management of chronic conditions, and broader community well-being.
“Housing organizations are being asked to do more and more,” said Kevin O’Connor, CEO at RUPCO. “This grant helped us provide much-needed services for our residents, particularly seniors living in rural communities, who have benefited immensely from access to RUPCO’s Health Advocate for Seniors. This position has been critical in ensuring elderly residents receive transportation to and from healthcare appointments and other essential services.”
Residents have widely praised the Health Advocate for Seniors at RUPCO for going above and beyond her role. She drives seniors to medical appointments and advocates for them every step of the way, holding their hands at the doctor’s office and making sure they get the care they deserve. She brings warmth and joy to their lives, like when a resident mentioned missing his dog. The next ride, she brought her own two pups along for the trip, lifting his spirits with a simple, heartfelt gesture.
The CDC-funded program was designed to support trusted community-based organizations in their efforts to provide culturally competent health education, address food insecurity, improve housing stability, and promote preventative health measures. RUPCO has successfully implemented initiatives aligned with these goals, directly impacting underserved populations across the Hudson Valley. The CDC stated “Now that the pandemic is over, the grants and cooperative agreements are no longer necessary as their limited purpose has run out.” However, this contract was signed on November 15, 2024, and clearly the need for rural and minority communities to receive health related services has always been underserved and remains critical.
With this funding, RUPCO planned to support the salaries of dedicated staff leading community wellness initiatives. The proposed activities aimed to:
As this funding is terminated, many community members may experience reduced access to services that support their long-term health and well-being. RUPCO urges policymakers and the public to advocate for the reinstatement of these essential resources.
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About RUPCO
RUPCO creates homes, supports people, and improves communities across a broad spectrum of community development solutions, including housing, historic preservation, and neighborhood revitalization in the Hudson Valley. RUPCO creates and maintains quality, sustainable housing and rental opportunities, inspires understanding and acceptance of affordable housing initiatives, and champions pathways to opportunity. For more information, visit www.rupco.org