Religious institutions have long been associated with better human health. Many of these institutions serve as vital community resources, offering food pantries that help address food insecurity and running substance use outreach programs. The physical spaces provided by religious organizations also foster social cohesion and a sense of belonging, which can significantly reduce social isolation, a factor strongly linked to poor health outcomes.

However, the number of churches closing across the United States has been on the rise, a trend that was further accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

In this area of research, we investigate the extent to which churches have closed between 2000 and 2023. We also investigate the relationship between these closures and self-rated health within the affected populations. To support this research, we have developed a dashboard that tracks church closure rates nationwide. The goal of this dashboard is to assist governments, communities, real estate developers, and faith-based institutions in co-designing the built environment. By incorporating smarter social service provisions, this initiative aims to promote better population health and well-being.