Transforming Communities Initiative (TCI)

At Trinity Health, we’re committed to creating healthier, more equitable futures for everyone. The Transforming Communities Initiative (TCI) lies at the heart of this mission, addressing systemic disparities and advancing health equity. Relaunched in 2022, TCI collaborates with nine diverse communities, where over 40% of residents identify as Black or Latinx and face significant socioeconomic challenges.

Empowering Communities through Data-Driven Solutions

Guided by Community Health Needs Assessments (CHNA), TCI helps each community address local health challenges like food insecurity and chronic disease management. These data-driven strategies empower communities to develop solutions tailored to their unique needs.

Four Years of Impactful Change

In just four years, TCI has supported eight communities in achieving real progress through policy, system, and environmental (PSE) changes. By uniting Trinity Health hospitals, local organizations, and residents, TCI provides grant funding, technical assistance, and shared learning opportunities—building the capacity for lasting health improvements.

This initiative isn’t just a program; it’s a partnership, a movement, and a promise to transform lives—one community at a time.

Spotlight on Hartford: North Hartford Triple Aim Collaborative (NHTAC)

Founded in 2017 with TCI seed funding, NHTAC advances health and well-being in North Hartford, including the federally designated North Hartford Promise Zone. Partnering with Saint Francis Hospital and United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut, the collaborative focuses on better health, childhood well-being, and reducing socioeconomic disparities.

Key Achievements

• Tobacco Prevention: Youth advocates trained by NHTAC played a pivotal role in the 2019 passage of Tobacco 21 in Hartford, influencing statewide legislation.
• Community Food Access: The Healthy Hartford Hub grocery store now serves nearly 48,000 residents in North Hartford.
• Complete Streets: Infrastructure improvements benefit Hartford’s population of 125,000.
• Farmers Markets & Cooking Classes: Programs like the North End Farmers Market and Cooking Matters classes reach approximately 6,000 residents annually.

Well Being 360 & Collaborative Progress

NHTAC collaborates with Well Being 360 and leadership from Saint Francis Hospital, Hartford Health and Human Services, and Wellville. Together, they’ve developed sustainable interventions and funding mechanisms, driving milestones in health equity.

Sustainable Funding & Future Impact

NHTAC’s long-term sustainability is secured through partnerships and co-investment, with activities funded through 2025. Strategic grants like Invest Health and REACH continue to support initiatives, including the Healthy Hartford Hub and statewide health policy advocacy.

COVID-19 Adaptations

During the pandemic, NHTAC formed a rapid response team, addressing food access, COVID-19 testing, and PPE distribution to vulnerable populations. These efforts reinforced the importance of sustained investment in health equity.

Looking Ahead

Thanks to TCI’s foundational support, NHTAC is driving lasting change in communities facing significant disparities. Through sustainable funding, policy advancements, and community-driven health initiatives, Hartford is moving closer to a more equitable future.

For more information about the Transforming Communities Initiative, contact:
Carolyn Alessi
Regional Director, CHWB
carolyn.alessi@trinityhealthofne.org