Indy Health District launches, plans to improve neighborhood quality of life

City leaders and neighborhood associations gathered Monday morning to announce the launch of Indy Health District (IHD), a new nonprofit committed to addressing health inequities in Indianapolis’ near north side. The IHD was created in response to address food insecurity, health inequality and socioeconomic disparities leading to a lower life expectancy in the near north side compared to other areas of the city. The district covers a 1,500-acre area from the north end of downtown up to Crown Hill Cemetery, which is home to historic neighborhoods, commercial and industrial zones, local schools and college campuses. “Over the last several years, we have listened closely to the voices of community members within the district’s boundaries to guide the development of this organization and will remain committed to listening to their input and feedback,” IHD executive director Jamal Smith said in a statement. “Our ultimate goal is to create physical and institutional frameworks that elevate the health and well-being of everyone who lives, works and plays in the Indy Health District.” The IHD, which began in 2017 as an idea, is a collaborative effort between IU Health, IU School of Medicine, Citizens Energy Group, Ivy Tech Community College and the Children’s Museum...