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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.

Saint Mary’s Hospital: Waterbury Market

TCI Collaborative Action Network (TCI CAN)

  • Focus Issues:
    • Poverty
    • Lack of Work Opportunities
    • Racism
  • Core Team Members:
    • Saint Mary’s Hospital (RHM lead)
    • Bridge to Success (Lead CBO)
    • Community Mental Health Associates (CHMA)
    • RIBA/Aspira
    • Nest

Collaborative Development and Leadership

Bridge to Success (BTS) is a trusted leader in Waterbury, known for its commitment to racial equity and its use of the collective impact model. TCI CAN was strategically built by BTS, engaging local residents and partners with a history of impactful work. With 99% of the CAN members being Black or Latinx, the group reflects the community it serves, bringing passion and lived experience to the table.

Achievements and Approach

  • Youth-led Data Collection: Mental health challenges, including depression and anxiety, were explored through surveys, focus groups, and conversations with residents and providers. Key underlying factors include poverty, racism, and unemployment.
  • Community Engagement: CAN members actively engage residents and ensure shared ownership of decisions, creating a sense of empowerment and inclusivity.
  • Racial Equity Training: Members have received racial equity and DEI training to foster a deeper understanding of the systemic issues affecting their community.

Policy, Systems, and Environmental Change

The CAN is building capacity for PSE change, conducting research on local policies, engaging legislators, and facilitating discussions to address racism in poverty.

Challenges and Vision

Progress has required consensus-building and aligning TCI processes with BTS’s established frameworks. Despite challenges, the CAN remains committed to driving systemic change in Waterbury.

 

Contact Information

For more information about TCI:

Waterbury Market
Cheryl Hilton, Manager CHWB
cheryl.hilton@trinityhealthofne.org