St. Catherine’s Center for Children awarded $500,000 from Mother Cabrini Health Foundation

Awarded for Continuation of Homeless Outreach Services

St. Catherine’s Center for Children has been awarded $500,000 from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation to continue outreach services to link vulnerable populations to primary and behavioral healthcare services in the Capital Region.

“As we set our sights on 2021, we must address the healthcare disparities related to race and income that have only been heightened since the onset of the pandemic. We honor the legacy of Mother Cabrini by funding activities, programs, and initiatives that help bridge gaps in health services, bolster the health outcomes of diverse communities, and eliminate barriers to care,” said Msgr. Gregory Mustaciuolo, CEO of the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation.

The grant supports St. Catherine’s Pathways to Health program into its second year, connecting 125 individuals of all ages, races, and genders living in poor, under-served communities in Albany, Rensselaer and Columbia Counties to critical healthcare services. New to the program in 2021: convenient and cost-effectivetelehealth services for clients through St. Catherine’s mobile street outreach Care-A-Van. Additionally, the program will provide wrap-around services for clients that include emergency hotel stays to overcome a sudden loss of shelter.

“We’re eager to incorporate the new program enhancements which a second year of Cabrini funding allows,” said Pathways to Health’s Supervisor Dave Healy. “COVID-19 still remains a daily health concern, and these additional services ensure no one is left behind during these troubling times.”

Last year, COVID-19 put an immense strain on already vulnerable populations in our communities. Pathways to Health was able to reach more than 250 clients, while connecting 118 to health and behavioral services. The pandemic also exposed a desperate need for essentials, and staff responded swiftly to meet the continuous demand.

“Hygiene kits, cleaning products, and food; anything an individual requested, we met their need,” continued Healy. “St. Catherine’s Head Chef Marco Trivellato cooked hundreds of fresh, delicious meals from scratch weekly to care for those suffering from food insecurity.”

Frank Pindiak, Executive Director of St. Catherine’s Center for Children, is grateful for the opportunity to continue Pathways to Health with Cabrini grant funding for the second consecutive year.

“We’re blessed to be among the incredible organizations selected by the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation in 2021, and honored to have their support and trust once again to continue to provide for our communities,” said Pindiak. “Vulnerable children, adults, and families are still suffering from COVID-19, but our Pathways to Health team is here to help them meet the challenge head on.”

About Mother Cabrini Health Foundation

The Mother Cabrini Health Foundation is a private, nonprofit organization with the mission to improve the health and well-being of the vulnerable New Yorkers, bolster the health outcomes of targeted communities, eliminate barriers to care, and bridge gaps in health services. The Foundation – which is named in memory of a tireless advocate for immigrants, children, and the poor – provides flexible support for new and innovative approaches that enhance health and wellness across New York State. For more information, visit www.cabrinihealth.org.

Media Contact

Leah Scott

Director of Marketing & Communications

Office: 518-453-6716

Email: lscott@st-cath.org

Web: www.st-cath.org/news