Baton Rouge, La. – Healthy Blue Louisiana is making a bold statement in support of healthier, more resilient communities with a $2.7 million investment in strategic initiatives that span workforce development, education, maternal and infant health, food insecurity, and community engagement. These investments reflect the organization’s ongoing mission to transform lives and strengthen Louisiana’s economic and healthcare landscapes.
“We are embracing opportunities to create lasting, positive transformations in our communities,” said Dr. Christy Valentine Theard, President of Healthy Blue Louisiana. “By partnering with local organizations and committing to innovative solutions, we’re confident we can expand our initiatives and nurture healthier, more vibrant communities across the state.”
Investing in Louisiana’s Future
Empowering Education: $1.3 Million in Endowed Scholarships
Healthy Blue is investing over $1.3 million in endowed scholarships at leading Louisiana academic institutions. Unlike one-time financial awards, these scholarships are designed to provide ongoing support for generations of students by maintaining the principal investment and using earned interest to fund tuition assistance.
Advancing Maternal and Infant Health: $600,000
To help address Louisiana’s persistently high infant and maternal mortality rates, Healthy Blue has invested $600,000 in Unimed, a health literacy app that supports expectant mothers and individuals with chronic illnesses. The goal is to empower users with the tools and information needed to navigate the healthcare system more effectively.
Boosting Workforce Readiness: $455,000
Recognizing the vital link between economic opportunity and health outcomes, Healthy Blue has allocated $455,000 to workforce development initiatives. Recipients include:
- New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute – $100,000
- Dillard Culinary Program – $100,000
- New Orleans Center for Creative Arts – $150,000
- Louisiana Leadership Institute – $100,000
- New Orleans East Hospital’s Community Health Worker Program – $100,000
Combating Food Insecurity: Over $350,000
To alleviate food insecurity across the state, Healthy Blue has committed more than $350,000. This includes $10,000 to the Baton Rouge Community College Food Pantry and broader support to expand food access through the Louisiana Community Technical College System Foundation.
Community Engagement: Over $90,000
From bike giveaways that promote active living to faith-based health partnerships, Healthy Blue has invested over $90,000 in grassroots initiatives. Notable among them is a $50,000 contribution to the LCMC Health Faith-Based Initiative, which aims to improve health outcomes through trusted community partnerships.
Looking Ahead
Healthy Blue Louisiana’s investments come at a time when community-focused, preventive care is more important than ever. By addressing both immediate needs and long-term goals, the organization aims to reduce systemic health disparities and foster economic stability statewide.
With future projects and collaborations in development, Healthy Blue continues to be a catalyst for positive change throughout Louisiana.
About Healthy Blue Louisiana
Founded in 2012, Healthy Blue is a managed healthcare provider serving Medicaid, Medicaid Expansion, and LaCHIP programs. The organization is a joint venture between Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana and Anthem Partnership Holding Company, LLC. To learn more, visit myhealthybluela.com or follow @HealthyBlueLA on social media.