The Hispanic Center Lehigh Valley (HCLV) honored Capital Blue Cross this summer with its prestigious Community Leadership Award, which recognized Capital Blue Cross’ singular commitment to providing COVID-19 vaccines to disproportionately impacted Lehigh Valley communities. The award was presented at FIESTA, HCLV’s annual Fundraising Gala.

“Capital Blue Cross helped HCLV in its effort to reduce disparities in vaccination rates,” said HCLV Executive Director Victoria Montero. “By providing vaccines to Lehigh Valley communities of color in the Lehigh Valley, Capital Blue Cross certainly helped meet a critical need.”

“Nothing matters more to Capital Blue Cross than the physical and emotional health of our members and their communities, and our COVID vaccination efforts in harder-to-reach neighborhoods in the Lehigh Valley – as well as in Harrisburg and Lancaster – reflect that priority,” said Susan Hubley, Capital Blue Cross vice president of Corporate Social Responsibility. “We were honored to collaborate with the Hispanic Center Lehigh Valley in these efforts, and we’re humbled to be recognized for going the extra mile to keep Lehigh Valley residents safe and healthy.”

HCLV’s Montero pointed to Capital’s longstanding support of the Hispanic Center, and highlighted the health insurer’s uncommon commitment and customer service during a four-day 2021 clinic at the center, where Capital provided 2,000 vaccines. Vaccinations were available to participants whether or not they were Capital Blue Cross members.

“Capital Blue Cross championed the efforts of building health equity in the Lehigh Valley,” Montero said. “The organization provided outstanding customer service to all clients. Every person that received a vaccine was treated with respect and provided with an outstanding experience. HCLV values the partnership we have with Capital Blue.”

Contributed article