Faith and Friendship: How Two Community Leaders are Partnering for Better Health

“She rolled up her sleeves, rented a truck, availed us of a driver, and brought it to three locations,” says Jones, fondly known as “the Bishop.” “She’s not only a friend, she’s also available when we need her. We need more Lisas.” 

‘Be in health’

There’s room for improvement when it comes to the health of Newark’s residents. Compared to the rest of the state, people here experience significantly higher rates of high blood pressure, diabetes and chronic heart disease. And according to data from the U.S. Census, 23% of residents have no health insurance.

Oftentimes, they also have no primary care doctor and end up heading to the emergency room when they have a health issue, the Bishop says. “If something isn’t bothering them at the moment, if it’s not right at their door, they’re not going to plan ahead and apply for health insurance,” he explains. “And then, when they do get sick, that's when they run to the emergency room (ER).”  

Many of the people the Bishop works with, including those struggling with chronic illnesses or addiction, need a lifeline that goes beyond a trip the ER. One of the most common complaints he hears is, “I'm tired. I need help, but I don't have insurance.” “I mean, I hear this almost daily,” he says. 

It’s no surprise, then, that the Bishop sees supporting his community’s health as part of his calling. “There’s a Bible verse that says, ‘Above all, I wish that you would prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers,’” he explains. 

For years, he had a difficult time finding a reliable resource to refer community members to. And then, in the spring of 2018, he met Lisa. 

Making inroads in the community

From the moment the Bishop was introduced to Lisa at a community health fair, he was struck by her ease with people. He also quickly realized that they shared the same goal: to help residents access health care and resources to live healthy lives.

So he began to invite her along to block parties and monthly interfaith meetings, where she made connections with other members of the clergy. In turn, those clergy invited her to speak about Aetna Better Health of New Jersey benefits at their houses of worship.  

A newcomer to Newark, Lisa says her friendship with the Bishop has helped her make important inroads in the area. “You’re just coming into a community without knowing anyone. They don't know how to perceive you,” she explains. “But because I’m accepted by the Bishop, other people are interested in hearing what I have to say.”

Helping to improve a community’s health

Even with the Bishop’s support, becoming a trusted resource doesn’t happen overnight. To help nurture their relationship with the community, Lisa and her team regularly hold free health and wellness events at Healthcare Central, such as monthly food giveaways, healthy cooking demonstrations and health education classes. 

“It's not just about the health insurance,” Lisa says of the events. “At the end of the day, we hope they become an Aetna member. But primarily, we want to make sure that they have health insurance and are aware of the different organizations offering it. We’re here for anyone who’s interested in learning how to live a healthier life.”

Having a consistent presence in the neighborhood also helps. During the contaminated drinking water crisis, for example, Lisa made a point to attend community meetings. That way, if someone came into the store asking questions, she’d be prepared to provide them with the right resources. “It's important to know the community that you're in and what is affecting them, so you know what to focus in on to help them,” she says.

The extra effort is worth it, as Lisa and the Bishop have both seen firsthand how residents can benefit from access to health care. “You can feed people, and the next day they’re hungry again. But if you give them an opportunity to get health care, they can be well,” the Bishop explains. “And when people are well, they can work.”

“You know,” he continues, “I'm always looking for people like Lisa, and she just dropped in my life. I thank God for her.” 

Lisa smiles. “He’s definitely been a blessing in my life,” she says.