BALTIMORE — On Monday, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield announced they will be contributing $2 million to community nonprofit organizations that are working to provide relief for communities needs during the coronavirus pandemic.
CareFirst engaged more than 60 organizations in Maryland, Washington D.C. and Northern Virginia to understand what those most critical needs are.
They identified health, social and economic needs as funding priorities. Funds will help address the complex needs to close gaps in medical care access, minimize food insecurity and support the needs of economically vulnerable populations who are disproportionately impacted during the COVID-19 health crisis.
Additionally, those contributions will help seniors quarantine in place by providing pharmacy and medication assistance, transportation and medically tailored meals.
“Now, more than ever, is the moment for empathy, urgency and corporate social responsibility. It is critical for organizations to join together and combine efforts during this time of uncertainty to help limit negative impacts to the people and communities we serve,” said CareFirst President and CEO, Brian D. Pieninck. “As a not-for-profit company, it has always been our commitment to serve not only our members, but individuals, families and communities throughout the region in pursuit of new pathways to improve health equity. We are honored to work with community organizations on the front lines to help ensure people’s short and long-term needs are met during this public health crisis.”
The funding will occur in two phases to provide ongoing relief to organizations during the outbreak and recovery phases. The funds will be available from March to September 2020.
