Trocaire College Awarded $200,000 from Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Blue Fund

Funding to support college’s healthcare workforce development programs

Trocaire College today announced it has been awarded a $200,000 grant from Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield’s Blue Fund initiative. This funding will be used toward the college’s workforce development programs, helping individuals pursue healthcare careers through skills training, certifications, clinical placements, and wraparound support services. Trocaire’s current programs include phlebotomy, sterile processing and distribution, EKG technician, pharmacy technician and healthcare customer services.

“Education doesn’t stop once you graduate, especially in the healthcare field, which is why Trocaire is committed to offering the workforce training programs that local employees demand,” said Christine Whipkey, director of workforce development, Trocaire College. “Being recognized with this Blue Fund grant will enable us to expand our scholarship offerings and bring these crucial healthcare programs to students looking to advance their career or begin a new career path.”

Trocaire College is one of 20 community health initiatives Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield has invested $3.75 million through its Blue Fund, an initiative of the Highmark Bright Blue Futures charitable giving and community involvement program. Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield launched Blue Fund in July 2018 to support organizations and initiatives that work collaboratively to address key health priorities and deliver measurable improvements in community health outcomes.

“Improving community health takes collaboration, commitment, and a shared vision for change,” said Michael Ball, vice president, Community Affairs, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield. “That’s why we continue to invest in organizations that are expanding access to care, supporting families, strengthening the healthcare workforce, and addressing the root causes of poor health. Together, we’re advancing solutions that create lasting impact and help more Western New Yorkers live healthier lives.”

For more information about Trocaire’s healthcare workforce development offerings, visit https://trocaire.edu/academics/workforce-development/.