Where Do We Go From Here?

On December 18, InterCommunity was honored to once again partner with Steven’s Stockings for a day rooted in compassion, dignity, and hope. Backpacks filled with self-care essentials, warm clothing, and recreational items were distributed to InterCommunity clients and community members impacted by mental illness, addiction, or homelessness—small gestures with a powerful message: you are seen, you are valued, and you are not alone. Steven’s Stockings was created in memory of Steven Sienkiewicz, whose life was shaped by both addiction and progressive mental illness. Steven believed deeply that everyone deserves a second chance—or a third, or a tenth—whatever it takes. Though he is no longer here to build the safe, welcoming space he dreamed of, his spirit lives on through this program. Each backpack shared on December 18 carried not only essential items, but also acknowledgement, acceptance, and emotional support—the heart of Steven’s vision and the mission of Steven’s Stockings. The relationship between Steven’s Stockings and InterCommunity began unexpectedly on Christmas Eve in 2016. After delivering gifts to shelters across Hartford, the Steven’s Stockings team found themselves with remaining backpacks and no destination. A family connection led them to Coventry House, one of InterCommunity’s recovery programs. When they knocked on the door, they were met with warmth, gratitude, and open arms. What began as a spontaneous stop became the start of a deeply meaningful partnership—one that has grown stronger each year. “InterCommunity holds a very special place in our hearts. From that first unexpected visit years ago, we felt an immediate sense of warmth, respect, and shared purpose," said Marie Sienkiewicz, President of Steven's Stockings. "Each December, when we return, we are reminded that recovery is built on connection, compassion, and believing in people—exactly the values Steven carried with him and that InterCommunity lives every day.” Since that first visit, Steven’s Stockings has returned annually to InterCommunity, delivering backpacks to clients at every stage of recovery. Beyond the items themselves, the December gatherings have become moments of connection—opportunities to meet clients and staff, share Steven’s story, and honor the strength and courage it takes to keep moving forward on the path to recovery. This year’s December 18 distribution was a powerful reminder of what is possible when compassion meets community. Through Steven’s Stockings, InterCommunity clients were reminded that their journeys matter, their resilience is recognized, and their future is worth investing in. Together, InterCommunity and Steven’s Stockings continue to carry Steven’s legacy forward—one backpack, one conversation, and one moment of hope at a time.

Just before Thanksgiving, InterCommunity’s School-Based Health Center (SBHC) team helped ensure that families in East Hartford could enjoy a warm, complete holiday meal. On November 19 and November 21, the SBHC team partnered with Connecticut Foodshare to host two Thanksgiving food drives at Mayberry Elementary School—our only school site with a permanent food pantry. Thanks to this coordinated effort, more than 20 families received full Thanksgiving dinners, bringing comfort and stability during a time when many face increased financial strain. These events showcased the heart of our mission and the dedication of our staff. We extend heartfelt gratitude to SBHC Coordinator Guadalupe Ferreyra for identifying families in need, to our Facilities Team for transporting and distributing meals, and to SBHC Practice Manager Jessica Russell for managing logistics and leading the collaboration with Connecticut Foodshare. Their compassion and teamwork ensured that support reached the families who needed it most. This year’s holiday season also underscored a growing concern: the recent government shutdown and resulting loss of SNAP benefits for many households. As families suddenly faced gaps in essential resources, InterCommunity recognized the urgent need to strengthen our role in combating food insecurity—not only within our programs but across the community at large. In response, InterCommunity is expanding its food support efforts. In addition to maintaining the School-Based Health Center food pantry at Mayberry Elementary School, InterCommunity will now work more closely with local food pantries to help stock shelves, provide financial support, and ensure that food access remains steady for vulnerable residents. Several InterCommunity sites will soon host food drop-off locations, making it easier for staff, partners, and supporters to contribute. We also invite donors to make a direct impact by giving to the IC Food Pantry Fund, which helps us purchase essential items and respond quickly to emerging needs. Together, we can make sure families struggling with food insecurity are met with compassion, dignity, and dependable support—during the holidays and all year long. To support our efforts, visit our donation page and select “IC Food Pantry” under support designation.

While the holidays are often portrayed as a season filled with joy, connection, and celebration, the reality can look very different for many individuals and families. Beneath the bright lights, busy schedules, and expectations to feel cheerful, a significant number of people face emotional challenges that intensify this time of year. Stress, grief, loneliness, financial strain, and seasonal changes can all contribute to what is commonly known as holiday depression—and it affects far more people than we often acknowledge. According to the American Psychological Association’s 2023 Stress in America survey , 41% of U.S. adults report their stress increases during the holiday season compared to other times of the year. Much of this stress is tied to increased responsibilities, financial pressure, and the expectation to participate in social gatherings even when individuals feel emotionally drained. Nearly half of adults report missing loved ones or experiencing grief, a reminder that the holidays can amplify feelings of loss. A 2025 AARP study found that 40% of adults aged 45 and older report feeling lonely, and these feelings often intensify this time of year. Grief, distance from loved ones, and unmet expectations can make the season feel even heavier. For those living with mental health conditions, the season can be especially difficult. A survey by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) found that 64% of people with mental health conditions reported their symptoms worsened around the holidays—a finding reaffirmed by SAMHSA in 2023. For many, the pressure to appear “happy” makes it even harder to share how they are truly feeling. Our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Chad McDonald, emphasizes the importance of awareness, compassion, and support during this time. “Behind the holiday lights and pressures to be 'joyous', many are struggling in silence—when more than 60% of those with mental health conditions have worse symptoms," he states. "It’s important to remind each other that help is not just available—it’s essential.” At InterCommunity, we want our community to know that they do not have to face these challenges alone. We encourage everyone to take small steps to protect their well-being—whether that means setting boundaries, making time for rest, honoring grief, or reaching out to trusted friends and family. And for those who need additional support, our behavioral health services are here to help, offering counseling, crisis intervention, and a safe space to talk. This year, let’s give ourselves—and others—permission to slow down, set boundaries, and reach out for support. Emotional health is health, and taking care of it is one of the most meaningful gifts we can offer. If you or someone you know needs support, please call InterCommunity at (860) 569-5900 or visit www.intercommunityct.org . For urgent needs, dial 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

On Friday, November 14, InterCommunity Health Care and friends came together for our largest Gala yet — Light Up the Night: Shining a Light on Whole-Person Health Care. It was a memorable evening filled with connection, joy, and an extraordinary display of community generosity. Thanks to the incredible support of our donors, sponsors, and guests, we are proud to share that we raised $130,000 to expand access to physical health, mental health services, addiction recovery, and whole-person wellness across Greater Hartford. A very special thank-you to our Title Sponsor, Reid & Riege Attorneys, whose partnership and commitment helped make this unforgettable evening possible. We are also deeply grateful to our Gold Sponsors — ShopRite and Waverly Markets — for their outstanding generosity. And to all our additional sponsors who contributed at every level, thank you for standing with us and investing in stronger, healthier communities. The night was expertly guided by Renee DiNino, whose warmth and humor kept the program on track while bringing plenty of laughter to the room. Her presence made the entire evening feel welcoming and joyful. We also thank Latanya Farrell, whose powerful performances energized the crowd and set the tone for a night of celebration and connection. One of the most meaningful moments of the evening was honoring our 2025 Awardees, three remarkable champions of community wellness and equity: Joel Cruz Jr., Executive Director of Urban Alliance Meghan Blanchette, Founder of Fiercely Meghan LLC and Area Coach & Artist Team Member at Sport Clips Haircuts JoAnn Price, Co-Founder of Fairview Capital Their leadership and service continue to inspire the work we do every day. Throughout the night, the atmosphere was filled with gratitude — especially from our President & CEO, Kimberly L. Beauregard, who shared heartfelt appreciation with guests. She reminded us that “every contribution, every sponsor, every volunteer, every guest helped light up the night with generosity. Because of you, more families will receive the care, dignity, and hope they deserve.” Her words echoed the spirit of the evening and the collective power of community commitment. Finally, we extend special thanks to the InterCommunity staff members who volunteered their time and talent. Their teamwork behind the scenes ensured a seamless, uplifting, and truly memorable event. Light Up the Night was more than a gala — it was a celebration of compassion in action, and a joyful reminder of what we can achieve when our community comes together with purpose. 

At InterCommunity Health Care, we understand that quitting smoking is a significant step toward improving overall health. Our team is committed to providing comprehensive, individualized support throughout every stage of the journey. Smoking cessation visits are treated as personalized substance use treatment sessions—called nicotine replacement visits—where healthcare providers work with patients to develop tailored quit plans, monitor progress, and adjust interventions as needed. Patients have access to a range of nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs), including patches, lozenges, and gum. Combination therapy is also an option for those who may need additional support. Between appointments, nursing staff provide ongoing encouragement, monitor progress, and help fine-tune treatments to ensure patients stay on track. InterCommunity’s tobacco cessation intervention rate of 95.1% is more than 10 percentage points higher than the national average for HRSA Look-Alikes—placing us in the top tier nationally. This achievement reflects our commitment to proactive, integrated care and behavioral health coordination. “Every cigarette someone doesn’t smoke is a victory for their health,” says Dr. Chad McDonald, Chief Medical Officer. “We know quitting is hard, but we also know it’s possible—and our patients prove it every day. We’re here to walk with them every step of the way.” If you or someone you know is ready to quit smoking or vaping, we invite you to contact InterCommunity by calling (860) 569-5900 or using our referral form by CLICKING HERE . Together, we can take the first step toward a healthier future.

Diabetes can affect many parts of your body — even your eyes. It can cause a serious condition called diabetic retinopathy, which can lead to blindness if not caught early. At InterCommunity Health Care, we make it easier for you to stay healthy and protect your vision. We can take a quick picture of the back of your eye at our clinic using a special camera called Luminetics. Most people don’t even need dilating drops. It’s fast, simple, and can help prevent vision loss. Our team is proud to be recognized as a National Quality Leader in Diabetes Health by HRSA. In 2024, only 22.6% of InterCommunity patients with diabetes had poorly controlled A1c levels — that’s 20% better than the national average. These results show that when you choose InterCommunity, you’re choosing a team that cares and delivers results. We’re here to help you take control of your diabetes — one checkup, one conversation, and one healthy choice at a time. “Too often, people in our community put their health last because of barriers like cost, time, or access," said Chad McDonald, InterCommunity's Chief Medical Officer. "At InterCommunity, we want everyone to know that diabetes doesn’t have to take control of your life. With the right care and support, you can stay healthy, protect your vision, and live well. We’re here to make sure that care is within reach for everyone.” If you have diabetes, ask your provider about your A1c test and your yearly eye scan — both available right here at InterCommunity. Make your appointment today by calling (860) 569-5900 or CLICK HERE to use our online referral.

Last year’s flu season was one of the worst in more than ten years. Thousands of people were hospitalized, and sadly, 280 children across the country lost their lives. Here in Connecticut, only about half of adults got the flu shot. That means too many families were left unprotected. Dr. Chad McDonald, our Chief Medical Officer at InterCommunity, puts it simply: “With over 280 children lost and hospitalizations at a 10-year high, last flu season proved one thing: skipping your shot isn’t just risky—it’s deadly for you and the community.” This year, getting your flu shot matters more than ever—especially for people in communities like ours. The Connecticut Department of Public Health notes that neighborhood poverty is associated with lower flu vaccination rates, even as overall rates improve statewide. And according to Connecticut’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, Black and Brown residents are less likely to receive recommended vaccines. These disparities mean that communities of color in Greater Hartford are at higher risk for serious illness from the flu, especially when combined with other health challenges like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease. At InterCommunity, we’re working to close that gap. Our clinics make flu shots easy, affordable, and accessible for everyone. When you get vaccinated, you’re not just protecting yourself—you’re protecting your neighbors, elders, and children. This fall, let’s look out for each other. Roll up your sleeve. Get your flu shot. Protect yourself, protect your family, and protect your community.

Mark your calendars for Friday, November 14, 2025 —because this year’s Light Up the Night Gala will be bigger and brighter than ever! For the first time, our signature event will be held at the Connecticut Convention Center in Downtown Hartford, giving us the space to welcome more friends, partners, and supporters than ever before. This isn’t just a fancy night out (though we promise there will be delicious food, dancing, and fun)! Light Up the Night is about something much deeper: coming together to ensure that everyone in our community has access to the care they need—be it physical care, mental health services, addiction recovery, or wellness programs. Every ticket purchased, every table sponsored, and every dollar raised goes directly toward expanding care for children, families, and neighbors across Greater Hartford and beyond. What to Expect Guests will enjoy: Cocktail hour & time to connect with new and old friends. A delicious dinner. Live entertainment & dancing. A silent auction with some truly one-of-a-kind items. Inspiring stories and an awards ceremony honoring local leaders making an impact. We are also thrilled to welcome Renee DiNino , local media personality and Director of Community Affairs at WFSB Channel 3, as this year’s Gala emcee. Renee has a gift for connecting with people and spotlighting the good happening in our communities—you’ll love the warmth and energy she brings to the evening. Honoring Our Partners We couldn’t have pulled off this event without the generosity of our supporters. A special shout-out to our Title Sponsor, Reid & Riege Attorneys, and all of our wonderful sponsors and supporters. Your support helps us keep our mission alive. “Our donors are more than supporters—they’re true partners in our mission. Every contribution reflects a belief in our work and a shared commitment to building a healthier, more connected community. I’m deeply grateful for the trust our donors place in InterCommunity, because their generosity makes it possible for us to expand care and change lives every day,” said Venton B. Forbes, Vice President of Community Integration and Impact at InterCommunity. Why It Matters InterCommunity began as a small nonprofit offering behavioral health services. Today, we have more than 350 employees providing a full range of care that uplifts thousands of lives each year. But here’s the truth: the need is greater than ever. And that’s why this Gala matters. “For more than two decades, I’ve seen firsthand InterCommunity’s impact on families across Greater Hartford. What makes this work so meaningful is knowing that we’re not just providing care—we’re providing hope, dignity, and belonging,” said Kimberly L. Beauregard, President & Chief Executive Officer at InterCommunity. “Our gala is a reminder that when we come together as a community, we can ensure that everyone, regardless of circumstance, has access to the care they deserve.” By showing up—by buying a ticket, sponsoring a table, bidding at the silent auction—you’re doing more than enjoying a great night out. You’re helping us keep our promise: to provide high-quality, affordable healthcare to everyone who walks through our doors, no matter their circumstances. So, let’s come together on November 14 to celebrate, laugh, dance, and—most importantly—make a difference. We can’t wait to see you there. To purchase your tickets today or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit the gala website at: https://give.classy.org/ICGala2025 Help us Light Up the Night!

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States—and in Connecticut, the numbers are especially alarming. Our state has the second-highest rate of new breast cancer cases in the nation, with nearly 4,000 women expected to be diagnosed this year and more than 400 lives lost. That means, on average, one woman dies every single day in Connecticut from a disease that is often preventable through early detection, according to the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH). DPH’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program notes that Black women in Connecticut are more likely to die from breast and cervical cancer than any other racial or ethnic group, and Latina women face higher rates of late diagnosis—when treatment is more difficult and survival rates drop. These disparities remind us why access to timely screenings is so critical. While InterCommunity Health Care does not provide mammograms on-site, our providers and Care Coordinators make it a priority to connect patients to screening before they even leave our clinic. From writing referrals to scheduling appointments, we walk alongside our patients every step of the way to ensure no one misses this vital opportunity. Why screenings are important: Mammograms can detect breast cancer years before symptoms appear, when treatment is most successful. National guidelines recommend women ages 40 to 74 get screened every one to two years, though some women at higher risk may need earlier or more frequent testing. Most insurance plans cover mammograms at no cost, and for those without coverage, programs like Connecticut’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (CBCCEDP) provide free screenings. Screening is not always an easy decision. There are benefits and risks, which is why it is important to talk with a trusted healthcare provider to weigh options, ask questions, and make the best choice for your health. At InterCommunity, we believe no woman should face breast cancer alone. Early detection, support, and access to care can save lives, and together, we can change the story for families in the Hartford region and beyond.