Naugatuck Nonprofits May Earn Up to $50,000 a Year to Expand Health Services

Good news for the town’s charitable groups: a fresh round of funding could pour as much as $50,000 a year into programs that bridge health‑care gaps. The Healthbridge Foundation of Greater Waterbury, a partner of the Connecticut Community Foundation, announced a fall grant cycle that’s open to any nonprofit working to lift barriers to medical care in Naugatuck.

What’s on the table? Grants can be sought for up to three years, giving organizations breathing room to plan longer‑term projects. The foundation’s focus is clear—help residents secure primary‑care visits, preventive services, and the insurance coverage they need, plus the rides that get them to the doctor’s office.

But it doesn’t stop at transportation. Programs that assist people wrestling with out‑of‑pocket costs—think co‑pays, deductibles or coinsurance—are also eligible. “We know the need is great,” said Ellen Carter, chair of the Healthbridge Board of Trustees, underscoring why the grant was crafted after a local needs assessment highlighted insurance gaps, affordability concerns and a shortage of reliable medical‑trip options.

Interested groups have until 11:59 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 21, to submit their applications online. The process is straightforward, and the foundation encourages applicants to think big: up to three years of support could mean a $150,000 runway for a truly transformative effort.

Healthbridge, founded in 2019, serves Naugatuck and 12 neighboring Greater Waterbury communities. For any questions—whether about eligibility, application details or the broader vision—reach out to Andrew Oravecz, senior community health and strategy officer, at aoravecz@conncf.org or call 203‑753‑1315.

Local nonprofits eager to make a dent in health‑care access should act fast. This grant could be the catalyst that turns good ideas into lasting community change.