Hartford-Area Hospital Gets Major Grant For Hypertension Care

HARTFORD, CT— A new grant awarded to a city hospital aims to improve access to health care for locals, especially as it relates to the treatment and prevention of hypertension-related illnesses.

Saint Francis Hospital, located at 114 Woodland St., Hartford, has received a $250,000 grant from The Cigna Group Foundation to expand programs aimed at reducing health disparities and improving access to care in underserved communities, hospital officials announced Feb. 26.

The funding, awarded through the foundation’s Health Equity Impact Fund, will support a new hybrid care initiative focused on hypertension management and preventive health services.

“This grant enhances our ability to advance equitable health outcomes in the communities we serve,” said Valerie Powell-Stafford, president of Saint Francis Hospital. “With this support, we will expand evidence-based initiatives that address barriers such as access to preventive care, nutritious foods, and culturally responsive services.”

Hospital leaders said the funding will launch “Together for Wellness,” a program designed to improve blood pressure management through a combination of virtual care and in-clinic support.

The initiative targets patients with high blood pressure or uncontrolled hypertension and aims to reduce barriers to ongoing care.

The program will incorporate remote monitoring, nutrition education, and coordinated care, while embedding community health workers within primary care practices.

Officials said the approach is based on care models developed by Trinity Health of New England, which integrate clinical services with social support.

“Whether at home or in the clinic, Together for Wellness ensures patients are never alone in their journey to better blood pressure,” said Carolyn Alessi, regional director of community health and well-being. “By integrating technology, community outreach, and clinical expertise, the program strengthens access, equity, and long-term cardiovascular wellness.”

Foundation officials said the grant is part of a broader effort to address systemic health inequities in cities like Hartford, where residents face higher poverty rates, lower life expectancy, and barriers such as limited transportation and reduced access to primary care.

“Progress toward health equity requires us to confront disparities at their source and partner closely with organizations that truly understand their communities,” said Andrea Nelson, a board member of The Cigna Group Foundation. “We are proud to support Saint Francis Hospital as they work to eliminate structural barriers and broaden access to essential health resources.”

Research cited by the hospital indicates that social factors — including housing, education, transportation, and food access — account for up to 80 percent of health outcomes, contributing to disparities in chronic disease and life expectancy.

The grant is part of a larger philanthropic initiative by the foundation, which has committed more than $27 million over three years to nonprofit organizations addressing mental health and health equity nationwide.

Hospital officials said the “Together for Wellness” program will roll out in phases, with a focus on expanding access to preventive care and improving cardiovascular outcomes across Hartford communities.