In Support of a Healthier Maine

S. PORTLAND, Maine, May 28 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Diabetes Association, Aroostook Mental Health Services, and the Wellness Council of Maine were among more than 60 non-profit agencies across the state that Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Maine supported during 2009.

"As the state's largest health insurer, we're committed to improving the health of our members and the communities we serve, not only through providing innovative products and services, but also through charitable giving and volunteer service," said Daniel Corcoran, president and general manager, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Maine.

"Maine's caring non-profit agencies are part of the vital safety net of services which makes our state a better place in which to live," he noted.  "We are indeed proud to support their work."  He went on to say that among charitable giving, foundation grants, and the company's annual associate giving campaign, Anthem donated more than $800,000 to agencies across the state last year.

Anthem invests in its local communities in four major ways:

• Helping to promote healthy lifestyles
• Serving the uninsured and underinsured
• Community support
• Support for public policy and clinical research

The majority of Anthem's philanthropy is tied to health-related issues with a strong focus on helping reduce the impact of chronic disease.

"Chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and childhood obesity take a terrible toll on our society," Mr. Corcoran said.  "By investing in programs which foster education and prevention, we not only want to help improve personal health, but also to reduce the significant cost burden it has on Maine families."  

Recently, the company released its annual "Maine Social Responsibility Report" which highlights Anthem's giving and volunteer involvement in the state.  Copies of the report are available by visiting www.anthem.com and clicking on "Maine."

About Anthem

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Maine is the trade name of Anthem Health Plans of Maine, Inc., an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. ®ANTHEM is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.   Additional information about Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Maine is available at www.anthem.com.

SOURCE Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Maine