The Woonsocket Health Equity Zone (HEZ) utilizes collective impact and leverage community resources and to address health and wellness disparities in Woonsocket by focusing on the social determinants of health. The Woonsocket HEZ uses a place based approach to ensure that the neighborhoods in the community become the kind of places that enable all children and families to succeed and thrive. Woonsocket is disproportionately affected by many health disparities. Disparities are driven by upstream factors including a lack of access to healthy food, transportation, walk-ability and recreational space, high rates of teen pregnancy, trauma and toxic stress, domestic violence and accidental drug overdoses.  

Woonsocket HEZ Mission A group that takes action to improve the health and quality of life for all people in Woonsocket with the people of Woonsocket.   

Woonsocket HEZ Vision A future Woonsocket where people are connected to each other and to the community resources that reinforce health and well-being. A trusting relationship exists between residents and resources- built on a foundation of mutual respect, cultural sensitivity, and humility. A community where all individuals, families, and children are living in safe, nurturing homes within families and communities that support healthy development.

HEZ Partners

City of Woonsocket, Community Care Alliance, Connecting For Children and Families, Farm Fresh RI, Landmark Hospital, NeighborWorks Blackstone River Valley, New Beginnings Food Pantry, PACE Rhode Island, Riverzedge Arts, SNAP-Education URI, Sojourner House, The Autism Project, Thundermist Health Center, Woonsocket Fire Department, Woonsocket Harris Public Library, Woonsocket Head Start, Woonsocket Police Department, Woonsocket Public Schools, Woonsocket Prevention Coalition, Woonsocket YMCA, Woonsocket YWCA