Saint Mary's Hospital contributed $30,000 to Bridge to Success (BTS), the lead organization supporting Waterbury's Transforming Communities Initiative Collaborative Action Network, to expand community-driven efforts advancing health equity in Waterbury. The investment will drive policy, systems, and environmental change as Waterbury residents and community partners work to build healthier, more equitable communities.

The Transforming Communities Initiative (TCI) works with diverse Waterbury-region communities facing socioeconomic challenges, using Community Health Needs Assessments to help residents set local priorities and address food insecurity, chronic disease, and other social factors affecting health.

BTS works alongside residents, health care providers, and community partners to develop sustainable solutions that improve health and quality of life. After surveying nearly 900 people to determine the root cause of anxiety and depression in the community, the survey concluded that poverty was the leading factor.

Robert Roose, MD, MPH, President of Acute Care for Trinity Health Of New England, said, "At Saint Mary's Hospital, our commitment to improving the health and well-being of our community extends beyond the walls of our hospital. Supporting Bridge to Success and the Transforming Communities Initiative reflects our Core Values, Mission and our continued investment in addressing the factors that have the greatest impact on health throughout Waterbury."

The funding will support efforts addressing systemic challenges including poverty, unemployment, and racism, with additional focus on transportation and housing to provide relief to the community.

"This financial contribution to Bridge to Success reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting the community-led work that began through TCI," said Carolyn Alessi, Regional Director, Community Health and Well Being, Trinity Health Of New England. "Saint Mary's Hospital and Trinity Health Of New England are not stepping away from this work but rather continuing in a supportive capacity as local partners and residents carry the momentum forward. We will remain actively engaged alongside our community partners to help advance efforts that improve health, well-being and equity throughout the region."

Saint Mary's Hospital and BTS led the TCI Collaborative Action Network (CAN) alongside partners including Community Mental Health Associates, RIBA/Aspira, and Nest, creating a collaborative model focused on racial equity, community engagement, and collective impact. BTS has played a pivotal role in developing the Waterbury CAN, ensuring resident voices remain at the center of decision-making.

Althea Brooks, Executive Director, Waterbury Bridge to Success, said, "This initiative is more than a program; it is a partnership, a movement and a promise to transform lives one community at a time."