After a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Public Health Solutions (PHS) was thrilled to see over 200 supporters in-person at its 2022 Health Reimagined Gala  on the evening of June 29. Over an evening of dinner, cocktails, and conversation, PHS recognized Champion of Public Health, Dr. Olusimbo Ige, and Corporate Champion of Public Health, Bronstein Properties, for helping us make strides in improving the health and wellbeing of our city, through some of the most challenging times. The event was livestreamed for virtual attendees. 

In President and CEO Lisa David’s opening remarks, she emphasized: “Just like with the early days of the pandemic, I can assure you that we are here to stand in step with the rest of our colleagues tackling these urgent issues – many in this very room – and we are ready to fight for and serve every single New Yorker in need. Tonight, we are here to honor two such partners – our Champions of Public Health – for their work in ensuring that New Yorkers did not fall through the cracks, at a time when help was most needed.”

From L to R: PHS Board Chairperson Barbara Green, Corporate Champion of Public Health Bronstein Properties, whose award was accepted by Daniel Rudofsky and Scott Silverman, Champion of Public Health Assistant Commissioner, Bureau of Health Equity Capacity Building at NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Dr. Olusimbo Ige, and PHS President and CEO Lisa David

Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer Zachariah Hennessey unveiled WholeYouNYC, a new PHS initiative that places people at the center of care and connects them with a network of resources to address their unmet needs. Although many social services and community resources exist in New York City, poor coordination between these resources creates a bottleneck, which limits access to these resources. WholeYouNYC is here to change that. This initiative brings over 300 organizations that offer 460+ programs across all boroughs of New York City ranging from food, housing, employment, legal aid, youth training and development, health insurance, maternal support, sexual health services, and so much more. 

We heard a personal account of how WholeYouNYC is already changing lives from Gabrielle Miller, a WholeYouNYC team leader, who spoke about her on-the-ground experience providing services to underserved New Yorkers: “WholeYouNYC is not just about getting the job done and offering the services a patient has asked for. It’s about listening and doing the best you can, for the whole person. ” 

Left: Gabrielle Miller, WholeYouNYC team leader Right: WholeYouNYC swag

After those two inspiring speeches about WholeYouNYC and its impact, our auctioneer, Charles Antin, managed the paddle raise, which generated over $40,000. With just $375, a family can gain access to the health and social resources they need to thrive and improve their long-term health and wellbeing. With this $40,000, ultimately 100 families can be served. 

Left: Charles Antin, auctioneer Right: A donor raising their hand

During dinner, our Champions of Public Health were welcomed on stage to receive their awards. President and CEO Lisa David introduced Corporate Champion of Public Health Bronstein Properties. Dr. Torian Easterling, First Deputy Commissioner and Chief Equity Officer at the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, introduced Champion of Public Health Dr. Olusimbo Ige. Each honoree emphasized the powerful impact of PHS’ programs in improving the health and wellbeing of New Yorkers. 

Pictured: Dr. Torian Easterling, First Deputy Commissioner and Chief Equity Officer at the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene

Daniel Rudofsky, speaking on behalf of Bronstein Properties, explained why New Yorkers need an organization like Public Health Solutions to bridge the healthcare divides where government programs cannot: “While government programs excel at providing basic medical care for underserved communities, they sometimes lack the flexibility to support health needs outside the traditional walls of a medical clinic or a hospital. That need to fund additional programs to truly help overcome health inequities amongst New Yorkers is what defines PHS.” 

Dr. Olusimbo Ige, after describing the devastation of COVID, said, “It truly takes a village: villages like Public Health Solutions…Public Health Solutions was with us from Day 1. First with our Test and Trace work, then with our COVID equity work, and now with our COVID disparities work.”

Left: Daniel Rudofsky and Scott Silverman of Bronstein Properties with their awards, with President and CEO Lisa David

Right: Dr. Olusimbo Ige of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, with President and CEO Lisa David and Board Chairperson Barbara Green

The night ended against the glittering Manhattan skyline with rounds of desserts and drinks. Thank you for joining us. Every dollar donated to PHS is going towards ensuring that people have access to the health care they need, including SNAP/WIC assistance, health insurance, early childhood development support, and sexual and reproductive healthcare, regardless of their income or zip code. Together, we are making a difference. 

Left: Delicious catering Right: Gorgeous skyline views

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