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Transforming Communities Initiative (TCI)

Community Health

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.

TCI in Springfield: Promoting Racial Justice and Health Equity

The Transforming Communities Initiative is a three-year project spearheaded by Mercy Medical Center to advance racial justice and health equity in Springfield. Guided by an Advisory Committee, the initiative tackles key challenges identified in Mercy Medical Center’s 2022 Community Health Needs Assessment, including housing, homelessness, and mental health.

Current Progress

In its second planning phase, TCI is conducting a root-cause analysis, developing a logical model, and crafting a community action plan. The process is supported by the Georgia Health Policy Center and Community Catalyst. Earlier this year, the team collaborated with local organizations such as the New North Citizen’s Council, Arise for Social Justice, and Way Finders to gain insights and build partnerships.

Key Focus Areas

The Advisory Committee, comprising residents and local leaders, has identified four priorities:

  • Food Access and Security
  • Housing and Homelessness
  • Mental Health
  • Violence and Trauma

The committee is now narrowing its focus to ensure interventions align with community needs.

TCI Goals

  • Advance Health Equity: Create equal opportunities for health and well-being.
  • Promote Racial Justice: Address systemic disparities and empower marginalized communities.
  • Empower Communities: Amplify the voices of residents in decision-making.

Advisory Committee and Partnerships

Led by Mercy Medical Center and the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts, the Advisory Committee includes Resident Advisors and representatives from key organizations like:

  • Gandara Center
  • Mercy Medical Center
  • Neighbor to Neighbor
  • Springfield Department of Health and Human Services
  • Way Finders

Together, they are driving meaningful change to improve the health and well-being of Springfield residents.

 

Learn More

For details about TCI, contact: 
Mary Stuart 
Executive Director, Community Health & Well-Being 
mstuart@trinityhealthofne.org