Aetna provides $130K to address housing insecurity in Kentucky

Aetna Better Health of Kentucky, a CVS Health company, has made a new commitment to housing security across Kentucky. In the first quarter of 2024, Aetna dedicated more than $130,000 in donations, sponsorships and supplies to community organizations across the state that provide and support critical housing services. 

According to the 2023 report from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, it is estimated that 4,766 Kentuckians experienced homelessness in January 2023, 30.8% of which were unsheltered. To address the issue, Aetna Better Health of Kentucky has committed financial support to key organizations, developed new and existing relationships with community partners and utilized a locally tailored, outcome-based approach to caring for members. 

“Factors such as economic instability, rising housing costs and limited availability of low-income housing contribute to a growing concern for Kentucky families and individuals struggling to find and maintain stable living conditions,” said Paige Franklin, CEO of Aetna Better Health of Kentucky. “The impact of housing insecurity extends beyond immediate stress and uncertainty; it significantly affects the physical and mental health of those experiencing it.” 

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Aetna Better Health of Kentucky has taken a surround-sound approach to addressing housing insecurity in the state. In addition to direct housing support, community partners reduce barriers to sustainable housing by providing workforce training, healthcare services and essential supplies. 

One of those organizations, Coalition for the Homeless based in Jefferson County, will facilitate bi-directional education and information sharing to help connect Aetna Better Health of Kentucky members with local resources. Additionally, sponsorships totaling $10,000 supported the publication of “Street Tips,” an annual booklet that outlines critical resources for unhoused individuals, and the Rx: Housing Fund, a grant fund that helps eliminate financial barriers to housing. 

“Only by working together can we ensure that every Kentuckian has a safe, affordable place to live with the community supports they need to thrive,” said Natalie Harris, executive director of the Coalition for the Homeless.   

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In addition to financial contributions and supply donations, Aetna Better Health of Kentucky has demonstrated a commitment to addressing critical housing needs through more than 100 hours of volunteer time dedicated to strengthening programs directly tackling housing insecurity. This multi-faceted approach aims to build resilient communities where all Kentuckians have safe, affordable housing. 

Aetna shared that it has provided the following organizations donations, sponsorships or supplies: 

• Coalition for the Homeless (Jefferson County) 
• Hope Village of Jefferson County 
• Up for Women and Children 
• Paducah Cooperative Ministry 
• The Nest (Fayette County) 
• Goodwill Industries 
• First Gethsemane Center for Family Development 
• FQHC Phoenix Health Care 
• Hope Village of Jefferson County 
• Bless the Block 
• Tp3 
• Habitat for Humanity 
• Abraham’s Pantry 
• Fayette County LexCount 
• Lexington Rescue Mission 
• Scott County Elizabeth Village 
• Gateway House 
• Floyd County Homeless Shelter 
• Powell County Homeless Coalition