RIPIN receives Tufts grant for self-managment training to handle chronic diseases

CRANSTON — Tufts Health Plan Foundation announced a grant of $81,497 to the Rhode Island Parent Information Network (RIPIN) to expand its peer-led chronic disease selfmanagement trainings for older adults.

Building on its 25 years of experience offering professional peer support programs, with this funding, RIPIN will expand its network of culturally and linguistically prepared trainers to include older adults. The grant reflects the foundation's commitment to building healthier communities by promoting collaboration and improving systems and best practices.

"Our investments focus on improving community livability and addressing inequities to help older adults live healthier, fulfilling lives," said Nora Moreno Cargie, president of the Tufts Health Plan Foundation and vice president, corporate citizenship for Tufts Health Plan. "Every community has different needs and opportunities. We want to honor communities where they [live] and catalyze health improvements for older adults and the entire community."

Working with the newly formed Own Your Health Coalition, the Rhode Island Parent Information Network will train older adult peer trainers to expand access to programs that help older adults manage chronic diseases. Partners in this initiative include the R.I. Department of Health through the Community Health Network, the Rhode Island Geriatric Education Center at the University of Rhode Island, and Federal Hill House Association, who are supporting older adults through its Senior Corps program.

In all, Tufts Health Plan Foundation announced 21 new grants totaling more than $1.7 million and representing collaborations with more than 200 community organizations in Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island.