FRIENDS WAY Receives Two Grants

FRIENDS WAY is the fortunate recipient of two grants from corporations that value the bereavement support the organization provides to children and families as they cope with loss and grief.

The Tufts Health Plan Foundation provided an unsolicited grant of $25,000 to FRIENDS WAY as part of the foundation’s commitment to support non-profit organizations focused on health equity and the social determinants of health. The foundation’s “40-for-40” program is commemorating Tufts Health Plan’s 40th anniversary by donating to 40 organizations in New England states that it serves.

“We know that health happens where we live, work and play. Our motivation is to boost organizations addressing issues that adversely affect health and reduce health disparities,” said Nora Moreno Cargie, president of Tufts Health Plan Foundation and vice president for corporate citizenship at Tufts Health Plan.

FRIENDS WAY also received a grant of $12,000 from Centreville Bank Charitable Foundation to help fund a strategic planning process.

“The work of FRIENDS WAY is incredibly important to help children and families navigate a difficult time in their lives, ” said Paola Fernandez, vice president of community development. “We at Centreville Bank are proud to support your efforts to develop a comprehensive strategic plan for the future with our investment and partnership.”

FRIENDS WAY, part of Lifespan affiliate Gateway Healthcare, is the only family bereavement center in Rhode Island, serving families throughout Southeastern New England. Staffed with highly qualified mental health care professionals and extensively trained community volunteers, the Warwick-based program provides peer support to children and their families in a safe and nurturing environment.

Upon receiving the grants, Susan Stevenson, executive director of FRIENDS WAY and director of Gateway Healthcare Child and Family Therapeutic Outreach Services, said, “These resources are vital to our continued ability to serve families when they are grieving and vulnerable. We are immensely thankful for the generous support provided by Tufts and Centreville Bank.”