Downstate Celebrates Caribbean Culture at the West Indian Day Carnival with #KeepCareClose Campaign

By Office of the President | Sep 17, 2024

Downstate played a vibrant and community-focused role in this year’s West Indian Day Carnival, one of Brooklyn’s most anticipated annual celebrations of Caribbean culture. Downstate highlighted its ongoing #KeepCareClose campaign as part of the festivities, underscoring its commitment to providing healthcare access to underserved communities, especially within Central Brooklyn.

The Downstate float was a colorful and energetic presence along the parade route, adorned with the bold #KeepCareClose logo that celebrated the campaign’s message of continuing quality healthcare to the local community. The campaign’s message appeared everywhere, not just on the float! Rally towels, handed out to paradegoers, doubled as a cooling mechanism for the lively crowd, and t-shirts with the campaign’s logo were worn by staff and volunteers, further amplifying the message.

Approximately 2,000 postcards were also distributed along the parade route, sharing information about the #KeepCareClose campaign and encouraging community members to connect with Downstate’s healthcare services and programs. The interaction along the parade route helped drive home the importance of accessible healthcare and community engagement.

Downstate’s participation in the carnival was about more than just celebration—it was about standing alongside the community it serves, making sure that care remains close to home, and building a healthier future together.

This year’s event showcased the strong unity between Downstate and its Brooklyn neighbors, with the vibrant carnival filled with music and color. At the same time, the message of healthcare equity and support shone brightly.