The Health Foundation for Western and Central New York allocates $500,000 to tackle healthcare workforce shortages across the region.
BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Health Foundation for Western & Central New York is awarding over $500,000 to support nonprofit organizations working to address the workforce shortages in the healthcare industry.
This funding is part of a $9 million gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott in 2022. Since receiving the donation, the Health Foundation has allocated a portion of the funds each year to support special initiatives.
This year’s focus is to help solve health care workforce shortages, which they claim have short and long-term consequences for urban and rural communities. According to a 2024 study conducted by the Center for Health Workforce Studies, shortages in New York State continue to affect a variety of roles in health care, such as registered nurses and licensed practical nurses, aides, and home health care workers.
“Workforce shortages have had a devastating impact on our community’s ability to access high-quality, affordable health care in a timely manner. These organizations are working to tackle the issue through creative initiatives and strategic collaborations,” stated Nora OBrien-Suric, Ph.D., President of the Health Foundation for Western & Central New York. “Additionally, many in the nonprofit sector have been dealing with the serious impact of funding cuts and policy changes at the federal level. These funds are one opportunity for us to help our nonprofit partners as they navigate these ongoing challenges.”
Funding Breakdown For WNY
$50,000 for Southern Tier Health Care System (STHCS) to support distance learning offerings including its Step Into Healthcare program, and Emergency Medical Technician-Basic program. These funds will provide matching funds to draw down additional funding provided by the Margaret L. Wendt Foundation.
$50,000 for The Chautauqua Center (TCC) to support a dental hygienist training partnership with Jamestown Community College and Monroe Community College. TCC will be a designated program training location. Funding would help cover startup costs for the program.
$50,000 for Trocaire College to support the Healthy Aging Nursing program. This new concentration will provide specialized workforce development that allows nursing graduates to connect with older adults more authentically by addressing their medical and psychosocial needs. Students who complete the program will receive certification in Healthy Aging and will be eligible for licensure in practical nursing.
$50,000 for multi-funder initiatives to address the negative impact of recent federal policy on the nonprofit sector, as well as nonprofit convenings to address those issues.
$50,000 of the funds had already been contributed earlier in 2025 for the WNY Refugee Resettlement Project to address urgent needs resulting from changes to federal policy.
The Health Foundation for Western & Central New York is an independent, private foundation that advocates for continuous improvement in health and health care across the region.