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Hudson Headwaters Announces 2024 Upstream Fund Community Projects

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Hudson Headwaters Health Network announces that five community-based projects have received support from the Network’s Upstream Fund, an annual grant program to help address social drivers of health such as food, housing, transportation and other socioeconomic issues.

“Hudson Headwaters understands that individual health is impacted by numerous factors extending beyond the exam room,” said Jessica Rubin, Hudson Headwaters’ vice president, chief impact officer. “The Upstream Fund reflects the Network’s vision to lead a sustainable and community-focused health system through collaboration and diverse partnerships. We are fortunate to be surrounded by dedicated nonprofit partners helping to ensure the well-being of our region.”

Hudson Headwaters launched the Upstream Fund in 2020 to externally invest in and empower community partners. Since the program started, more than $200,000 has been awarded. The Upstream Fund is supported by donors who restrict gifts for this purpose and the Network.

The 2024 Upstream Fund recipients and projects are:

AdkAction, Keeseville, NY
The organization creates projects that address unmet needs, promote vibrant communities and preserve the natural beauty of the Adirondacks for all. The grant supports the Long-Term Rental Catalyst Pilot Program, an effort to create a short-term rental conversion toolkit and incentive program that empowers interested property owners with the tools and support needed to help “unlock” immediate housing stock in the Adirondacks.

Joint Council for Economic Opportunity of Clinton and Franklin Counties, Inc. (JCEO), Plattsburgh, NY
The JCEO provides resources and services that enhance people’s dignity and self-reliance. The grant provides emergency aid to ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households during unexpected crises.

Little Peaks Preschool & Early Childhood Center, Keene, NY
The Center provides high-quality child care and preschool programming in the High Peaks region. The grant helps remedy the “ADK Child Care Desert,” providing operational support for the newly built and licensed nature-inspired early child care and preschool program.

Rural Law Center of New York, Plattsburgh, NY
The Center focuses on the needs of low-income, rural New Yorkers through the legal system and government institutions. The grant supports the Adirondack Regional Family Stabilization Program to provide assistance and resources to families and individuals residing in the Adirondack Region with filing bankruptcy, debtor education and credit counseling.

The Salvation Army-Empire State Division, Syracuse, NY
This division covers 48 counties in Upstate New York and one city in Pennsylvania. The organization is committed to doing the most good – “to feed, to clothe, to comfort, to care.” The grant will support Basic Needs Assistance for the ALICE Population in the Adirondack Region, providing year-round, direct financial assistance for heat and other utilities for ALICE households.

Hudson Headwaters’ Upstream Fund considers applications submitted through The Adirondack Foundation’s Generous Acts program. This is the fifth year the Adirondack Foundation and Hudson Headwaters have co-funded projects.

“As a community foundation, our role is to connect organizations and individuals with opportunities to support the region we all love. Fortunately, there are many like-minded organizations, like Hudson Headwaters, that are just as committed to healthy, vibrant communities,” explains Lori Bellingham, Adirondack Foundation’s vice president, community impact.

To learn more about the Upstream Fund, visit HHHN.org/support/upstream-fund.

CONTACT:
Pam Fisher
Director of External Affairs
Hudson Headwaters Health Network
[email protected]
518-338-7905