DOWNERS GROVE, Ill., Jan. 7, 2025 — CVS Health (NYSE: CVS) and Aetna Better Health of Illinois, a CVS Health company, announced a combination of $750,000 in community grants to organizations working to increase access to maternal and behavior health services, and the resources needed to take proactive steps toward a healthier future. This includes addressing hunger through food security solutions, housing insecurity for justice-involved individuals and workforce development and educational opportunities.

CVS Health and Aetna are committed to improving health outcomes by working with organizations who know their communities best and addressing the root causes preventing people from achieving better health. As part of this announcement, the following organizations will receive grant funding:

• After School Matters
• A Safe Haven
• Windy City Harvest, an initiative of Chicago Botanic Garden
• Dovetail Project
• EverThrive Illinois
• New Moms
• Phoenix Community Development Services
• Elevate Energy

"To address the impact of social determinants of health, it's essential to improve socioeconomic conditions, enhance access to care, provide education and resources, and foster supportive environments," said Rushil Desai, CEO of Aetna Better Health of Illinois. "Our goal is to collaborate with organizations across Illinois who work within their communities to tackle these issues at the source and provide people access to resources that will improve their overall health and well-being."

The community investments from Aetna align with the 1115 Waiver — a provision under the Social Security Act that allows states to expand Medicaid services, improve health outcomes and enhance the delivery of care to Medicaid beneficiaries. The 1115 Waiver is a critical tool for Illinois to innovate and improve their Medicaid programs, ultimately aiming to enhance care quality and access for under-resourced populations. It allows Medicaid programs to tackle health related social needs like, employment assistance, affordable and stable housing, healthy food, personal safety, transportation, affordable utilities, medical respite and community reintegration — exactly what the investment from Aetna addresses.

"These funds will go a long way in ensuring families in my district have access to food, housing, workforce development opportunities and more, especially for those who have been struggling to get by," said State Senator Lakesia Collins (D-Chicago). "I want to thank CVS Health and Aetna and the professionals at A Safe Haven and Windy City Harvest for dedicating their time and careers to helping folks find better opportunities, get the health care they need, and access beneficial programs."

"I am proud of Aetna and CVS Health for making critical investments in organizations that do some of the most critical work in our communities. After School Matters broadens young people's minds and Ever Thrive addresses longstanding public health inequities," said State Representative Kim DuBuclet (D). "Both of these groups are essential. I will continue to advocate for these programs and others like them that uplift and enrich the lives of our community members."

"After School Matters and EverThrive Illinois are doing incredible work to support families and young people in Chicago," said State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago). "I'd like to thank CVS Health and Aetna for providing these grants that will help these organizations propel their vital work of addressing systemic issues and investing in the future of our community."

"Dovetail Project is vital in the cause of promoting and sustaining healthy relationships between young fathers and their children," said State Senator Willie Preston (D-Chicago). "I want to thank CVS Health for supporting this crucial cause, although I can't say that I am surprised given CVS Health's consistent leadership in administering health and wellness in communities that have been historically underserved. This is a clear example of unity and progress that everyone can celebrate!"

Since 2022, Aetna has awarded over $1.3 million in community investments to support various Illinois based organizations that assist Medicaid members with access to healthy food, job development, housing support, maternal and child health, and access to care.

Aetna Better Health of Illinois serves over 360,000 Medicaid members in 102 counties. The health plan offers value-added benefits and best practices that have proven positive results in utilization, health gap closures and member satisfaction. For more information about Aetna Better Health of Illinois, visit our website.

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About Aetna Medicaid

Aetna Medicaid Administrators LLC (Aetna Medicaid), a CVS Health company, has over 30 years of experience managing the care of under-resourced populations, using innovative approaches and a local presence in each market to achieve both successful health care results and effective cost outcomes. Aetna Medicaid has expertise serving high-need Medicaid members, including those who are dually eligible for Medicaid and Medicare. Currently, Aetna Medicaid owns and/or administers Medicaid managed health care plans under the names of Aetna Better Health and other affiliate names. Together, these plans serve members in 15 states, including Arizona, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia. For more information, see .

About CVS Health

CVS Health is the leading health solutions company, delivering care like no one else can. We reach more people and improve the health of communities across America through our local presence, digital channels and over 300,000 dedicated colleagues – including more than 40,000 physicians, pharmacists, nurses, and nurse practitioners. Wherever and whenever people need us, we help them with their health – whether that's managing chronic diseases, staying compliant with their medications, or accessing affordable health and wellness services in the most convenient ways. We help people navigate the health care system – and their personal health care – by improving access, lowering costs and being a trusted partner for every meaningful moment of health. And we do it all with heart, each and every day. Follow @CVSHealth on social media.

Media contact

Robert Joyce
Robert.Joyce@CVSHealth.com