Lilly Commits $5M to Nonprofit Direct Relief

(photo courtesy: Eli Lilly & Co.)

Indianapolis-based Eli Lilly and Co. (NYSE: LLY) says it is making a $5 million commitment to humanitarian organization Direct Relief, which serves underserved communities.

The money is earmarked for Direct Relief’s Fund for Health Equity which provides financial support to health centers, free and charitable clinics, and other community-based organizations.

Lilly says the $5 million contribution is a component of its Racial Justice Initiative.

Direct Relief says it will award grants through the fund to safety-net providers who deliver healthcare to patients of racial and ethnic minority groups.

“Our support for the Fund for Health Equity will help empower rural and urban local health organizations to leverage innovation and relevant programming to overcome health disparities in their communities,” said David Ricks, Lilly chairman and chief executive officer.

The grants may be used in a variety of ways, including preventive health strategies, community-based outreach, and chronic disease care and management in underserved populations.