An innovative approach to integrate primary prevention programs into affordable housing and community development

Affordable-Housing and Community Development Organizations are in a unique position to address social determinants of health. Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI), a NCI-designated cancer center, partnered with Madison Parked Development Corporation (MPDC), a community development organization investing in affordable housing and the economic revitalization of Lower Roxbury, Boston, to eliminate built environment barriers to healthy affordable foods and physical activity. This partnership demonstrates how public health, health care and community development organizations can partner to impact the local environment and promote healthy living.  

In this partnership, MPDC, an anchor organization with nearly 50 years of experience working in the community, has prioritized efforts to implement an innovative approach to integrate primary prevention programs.  DFCI provides expertise in behavioral and social evidence-based approaches and resources to increase physical activity and healthy eating among residents of low-income housing developments. Specifically, the partnership supports Open Doors to Health, an initiative that includes incentives to increase utilization of community gardens, farm stands, cooking demonstrations, a CSA (Community Supportive Agriculture) program, and an array of physical activity opportunities. In addition, drawing from MPDC’s strengths, the program empowers community residents by providing training, stipends, and opportunities for resident engagement, advocacy and leadership. 

The goal of this presentation is to describe the evolution of a partnership to successfully implement an evidence-based primary prevention program to fully integrate health and wellness programs into community development.  Program evaluation, lessons learned, and best practices will be shared.