The Cigna Group Foundation has awarded grant funding to four Hartford-based nonprofit organizations through its Health Equity Impact Fund, furthering its efforts to improve access to health care and address longstanding health disparities in Connecticut. This second cohort of grantees will focus on removing barriers to culturally appropriate care and transportation—two of the leading obstacles to equitable health outcomes in Hartford.

"As a company whose mission is to improve the health and vitality of those we serve, we cannot overlook the health disparities that are especially pronounced in our own backyard," said Andrea Nelson, Board Member, The Cigna Group Foundation. "We are committed to helping remove barriers so that more people in Hartford can get the quality health care they need, when they need it. We are proud to collaborate with these incredible nonprofits to advance health equity for all."

Hartford faces among the highest poverty rates and lowest life expectancy levels in Connecticut. Many residents lack access to primary care and reliable transportation, which limits their ability to manage chronic health conditions and seek timely treatment.

The four funded projects include a hybrid hypertension clinic at Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center, an expanded Food4Health program at Hartford Hospital, a wellness and transportation initiative at the YMCA of Metropolitan Hartford, and culturally appropriate care efforts led by the American Heart Association’s Connecticut chapter.

This grant cycle is part of a $9 million, three-year investment by The Cigna Group Foundation to reduce barriers to health equity across the country.