Cape Fear HOP Economic Impact

Community Care of the Lower Cape Fear Reports $161.7 Million Economic Impact from Cape Fear Healthy Opportunities Pilot

Community Care of the Lower Cape Fear (CCLCF) announced new findings demonstrating the Cape Fear Healthy Opportunities Pilot (HOP) generated significant economic and workforce benefits across Bladen, Brunswick, Columbus, New Hanover, Onslow, and Pender counties while improving health outcomes for high-risk Medicaid enrollees.

Between January 2022 and August 2025, Cape Fear HOP produced $161.7 million in total economic impact, supported 1,422 jobs, and generated $58.1 million in labor income. Investments in food, housing, transportation, and care management helped stabilize families, reduce strain on the health system, and support local businesses and industries.

The findings are presented in a newly released economic impact infographic using data from a third-party economic analysis conducted using IMPLAN, a nationally recognized input-output modeling system used to measure regional economic effects.

As the Network Lead for Cape Fear HOP, Community Care of the Lower Cape Fear works to address non-medical determinants of health that contribute to improved care management engagement, fewer emergency department visits, and reduced hospitalizations. The program’s largest investments supported food and housing services, with ripple effects across sectors including housing, healthcare, retail, and restaurants.

These findings highlight how whole-person care initiatives can deliver measurable health and economic returns for communities.

Click here to read the HOP Economic Impact brief for the Cape Fear Region.

Who is Community Care of the Lower Cape Fear?

Community Care of the Lower Cape Fear (CCLCF) is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the health and well-being of residents across Southeastern North Carolina. Serving Bladen, Brunswick, Columbus, New Hanover, Onslow, and Pender counties, CCLCF collaborates with healthcare providers, community-based organizations, and local partners to advance whole-person care.

For more information about CCLCF’s Cape Fear Healthy Opportunities Pilot and the associated economic impact please visit our website at www.capefearhop.org.