Health Equity Policy Assembly to Focus on Priorities for Western Massachusetts

*** MEDIA ADVISORY ***

DATE:       Wednesday, April 10, 2019

TIME:        3-6 p.m.

WHAT:      Health Equity Policy Assembly, featuring community leaders and advocates
                 Hosted by Western Massachusetts Health Equity Network
                 and UMass Amherst School of Public Health and Health Sciences   

WHERE:   Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, 60 Congress St., Springfield

Community leaders and advocates from Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden and Hampshire counties will discuss state priorities for health equity at the 2019 Health Equity Policy Assembly. The public is invited to this free event. Health equity refers to the concept that everyone should have a fair opportunity to reach their full health potential.

Policy proposals and advocacy efforts include strengthening local and regional public health through the SAPHE program, reauthorizing the Prevention and Wellness Trust Fund, and advocating for proposed legislation to prevent childhood lead poisoning and to allow low-income households to apply for MassHealth and SNAP (food assistance) at the same time.