A Note from Davon Russell, WHEDco’s President
I am humbled and honored to share that I have been selected as a recipient of the inaugural 2020 Empire Whole Health Heroes Awards, granted by Empire BlueCross BlueShield and Crain’s New York Business. This award recognizes health care professionals, essential service providers, and business leaders from across the City who responded to the pandemic with “compassion, empathy and effective leadership” to make a meaningful difference in the lives of New Yorkers.
While I get to accept this award, the true credit goes to the entire WHEDco team and to our friends and supporters, who make possible the impact we are having on communities in crisis during the pandemic.
As you know, COVID-19 and the accompanying economic downturn have devastated the South Bronx, where families were already struggling to make ends meet. The pandemic, along with the social unrest of the Spring and Summer of 2020, illuminated inequities that were already all too familiar to our families. But thanks to our staff’s dedication and ingenuity and the generosity of institutional philanthropy and individual donors, we have been able to meet the moment, supporting families at their time of greatest need.
I am proud of leading a team of heroes, hundreds of staff and supporters who care so deeply for our community, who work day-in and day-out and contribute valuable resources to see us through to the other side of this disaster.
There is still a long road ahead for the Bronx’s recovery. Each day, WHEDco continues to ensure families can keep food on their tables, children are supported and can continue to learn, essential workers have access to safe and reliable childcare, small business owners have the information and resources they need to weather an unforgiving economic climate, and local artists can continue to entertain audiences.
Together, we will continue to serve as a lifeline for thousands of South Bronx families. Thank YOU for playing such a critical role in these efforts at a time when your support is most needed. New York Strong!
Gratefully,
Davon