From after-school programs to community organizing, The Freedom Project Network (FPN) is helping boost health and life outcomes for residents in Sunflower, Meridian, and Rosedale, Mississippi.
Inspired by the 1964 Freedom Schools, Freedom Project Network was founded in 2016 with the focus on improving student achievement and leadership. This initial focus was in response to the low graduation and college-readiness rates present across the Mississippi Delta.
Statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau suggests that within FPN’s service area, the number of people with a bachelor’s degree or higher can be 7% lower than the state average. FPN’s work is helping change that, and the benefits can last a lifetime.
Students with a bachelor’s degree earn up to $900,000 more in their lifetime than students with only a high-school diploma. With this additional income, residents are able to lead healthier lives and afford property closer to food and healthcare services. But, education isn’t FPN’s only focus area.
In recent years, FPN has expanded its work to include community engagement, environmental conservation, and so much more. Last year they hosted a local event, called a Community Health Carnival, that brought together local health-related organizations from around the state in order to boost health literacy and help people find care near them. The participating organizations set up booths, shared pamphlets, and delivered valuable health services to carnival-goers like blood pressure screenings and COVID-19 vaccines. Carnival-goers were also able to enjoy healthy food options, attend exercise classes, and learn more about health services near them.
By increasing literacy, college readiness, and access to health resources, The Freedom Project is helping improve the quality of life in the Mississippi Delta on all fronts, and that’s something we can all get behind. Click here to learn more about Freedom Project Network! Be sure to follow them on Facebook to get updates on their events and community work.
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