History

The Foundation for Community Health (FCH) has been investing in people, programs and strategies to improve health in area communities since 2003.

FCH is an independent corporation acting as a non-profit public charity 501 (c) (3) and a Type III supporting organization of Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation. It is governed by a 15-member volunteer Board of Directors. Each board member must maintain residence in FCH’s communities.

FCH was established in 2003 when Sharon Hospital was sold to for-profit Essent Healthcare, Inc. Connecticut law requires that the net proceeds from the sale of a not-for-profit hospital to a for-profit organization remain in the charitable sector through the creation of a “conversion” foundation. The original settlement approximated $16 million. The process was guided by Connecticut’s Attorney General and formalized by a decision of the Superior Court of the State of Connecticut.

FCH also receives income from other trusts. These were valued at approximately $6 million at the time of the 2003 sale.

Since inception, the FCH has awarded nearly $4 million in grants that have helped many in our community. In addition to its direct funding of health projects, FCH initiates forums, conferences, workshops, and other educational programs aimed at improving access to healthcare for people living in the FCH community.