Where you live can hurt or help your health. In fact, our health is influenced by a variety of non-medical factors, such as the conditions in which we are born, grow, live, work, and age. These conditions are known as social determinants of health (SDoH). Sometimes, social needs can arise from inequities in SDoH. These social needs include low wages and limited employee benefits; underperforming schools; lack of medical providers; unstable and unaffordable housing; low access to nutritious food; unreliable transportation options; and unsafe streets and parks. Here at Salud America!®, we believe everyday people can make healthy changes in their community to address social needs. That’s right – you don’t need to hold political office to make a positive ...
Where your city spends money (public investment) determines if you have access to parks, sidewalks, nutritious food, and public transportation, all of which have a far greater impact on your health than health care. In order for parents to keep their kids active and healthy, communities need to provide safe places to walk, bike, and play. Unfortunately, many Latino neighborhoods are missing these places due to inequitable distribution of public funds. Read more about inequity in public spending here. San Antonio residents (63.2% Latino) have the opportunity get involved in deciding where the city should spend $850 million over the next five years. “In some ways we’re kind of battling against history,” said San Antonio Mayor Ivy Taylor according to one source. “You go ...
You don't need a college degree and you don't need to recite Lincoln's Gettysburg Address to initiate change in your community. YOU can make a difference in your community through both political and non-political processes. Follow the news. Learn about community issues. Discuss with friends, neighbors, and coworkers. Follow city leaders and elected officials on social media. Reach out to city leaders, elected officials, and other agencies/groups/organizations. Although people may approach issues from a different point of view, ultimately, people care deeply about health and equity. Register on our site to connect with people like you interested in starting or supporting healthy social, political, or environmental change in your community or school. YOU can impact social ...