CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- A three million dollar investment from the American Medical Association aims to improve the lives of people living on Chicago's West Side.
In announcing the investment, AMA CEO Dr. James Madara noted the staggering difference in life expectancy between someone living on the West Side and someone living in Streeterville.
"There's a 17- year difference." Dr. Madara said that's a result of lack of quality healthcare and economic opportunities on the West Side.
"Chronic disease, early death are due to long-standing disinvestment from communities like the west side as well as racist policies and practices that are endemic in our society."
That's why the AMA is partnering with West Side United and several hospitals to try to improve the health and economic vitality in the area.
The money will be used in part to address health disparities and fund low-interest loans for entrepreneurs, community organizations and small businesses, which can change lives--possibly for generations to come, according to Dr. John Rich, director of the Rush BMO Institute for Health Equity.
"These investments create jobs, improve housing, support communities and will translate directly into healthier people and communities in these wonderful historic neighborhoods," he said.
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