Based in the rural town of Winchendon in north central Massachusetts, HEAL Winchendon offers an exciting model for community-driven economic development. Addressing local upstream social determinants of health, namely social inclusion, economic empowerment, and healthy food access, the HEAL Winchendon coalition is catalyzing important partnerships and efforts focused on improving the health and well-being of Winchendon.
"This past year has been one of building a strong foundation of relationships and programming with our community. We have come together as a team, and it’s inspiring to see the collaborative work we have been able to accomplish as partners. We are constantly looking for ways we can grow as a team and in our community outreach efforts to shift power and build trust. We want our work to be truly owned by our community and weave throughout the existing strengths and assets of the town." – Miranda Jennings, HEAL Winchendon Program Manager
"Getting to see the sense of community that carries through the pandemic was really rewarding. Having the opportunity to connect people to resources and being part of bringing the community together has given me a sense of purpose. The partnerships that came together to bring aid to our town not only helped our community but are relationships I also value and am very grateful for." – Molly Velasco, HEAL Winchendon Resident Leader and Youth Changemaker Advisor
A recipient of a three-year Moving Massachusetts Upstream (MassUP) Investment Program award from the Massachusetts Health Policy Commission (HPC), HEAL Winchendon is informed by the Empowerment Economics framework and includes Winchendon resident and youth leaders and eight local community-based organizations. This report draws on one year of research and partnership with HEAL Winchendon, the HPC, and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
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