STAMFORD, Conn. — The City of Stamford’s Department of Health has been awarded a $214,500 grant from the Connecticut Health Foundation to provide city residents affected by COVID-19 with the medical and support services they need to recover from the pandemic and maintain healthy lifestyles. 

In collaboration with the Stamford Department of Health, Family Centers Inc. will establish a team of Community Health Workers (CHWs) to guide Stamford’s most vulnerable populations through these challenging times. CHWs are members of the Stamford Community who act as caring neighbors to help other residents address the social, medical, and community problems that lead to poor health. CHWs help residents address everyday issues that prevent residents from following public health advice, including mental health services, groceries, utilities, medications, and other issues.

“As the epicenter for the COVID-19 pandemic in Connecticut we are very grateful to obtain this funding which will help us enhance our outreach to the community,” said Director of Health Dr. Jennifer Calder. “As Stamford continues to rebound from the effects of COVID-19, we must focus on the wellbeing of our residents in order to sustain the health of our community.”

Family Centers is one of lower Fairfield County’s leading providers of health, education and human service programs. Family Centers was chosen as this initiative’s partner organization for its deep understanding of the needs of the Stamford community. With 25 programs, Family Centers offers a comprehensive, wrap-around approach to helping residents overcome a variety of life’s obstacles.

“We are honored to work with the Stamford Department of Health to create a team of professionals that will help populations disproportionately affected by COVID-19 receive the care and support they need to realize their personal goals and the public health goals,” said Family Centers Chief Health Officer Dennis Torres. “We all need a little help sometimes, but so many of our neighbors are struggling to maintain their health in this COVID-19 era. The Community Health Workers will help open doors and provide residents with a lift when they need it most.”

Candidates for the 5 CHW positions available must be residents of Stamford with a working knowledge of the city’s resources. To apply, visit http://www.familycenters.org. 

This project is funded by a grant from the Connecticut Health Foundation.

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