March 19, 2024

Aldersbridge Communities Receives LGBTQ Safe Zone Certification from Blue Cross & Blue Shield

The nonprofit is one of five newly certified healthcare providers in RI

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East Providence, RI (June 25, 2019): Aldersbridge Communities, a nonprofit provider of long term care, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, assisted living services, and independent services for older adults, is officially a Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island LGBTQ Safe Zone. The certification is part of the agency’s Safe Zone Program initiative, which aims to promote safe and inclusive health care to the LGBTQ+ community.

The designation is awarded under strict guidelines, which includes: staff training specific to the care of transgender and LGB people; protection for patients and staff from discrimination based on gender identity or expression; gender-neutral bathrooms; inclusive forms and procedures; and a public commitment to connecting with and serving the LGBTQ+ community.

“Our mission has always been to provide comfortable care for older persons with dignity and purpose,” said Rick Gamache, MS, FACHCA, “The past few years we have been working on making our communities more inclusive. The nonprofit has been working the last few years on getting this certification. Recently, they included gender-neutral bathrooms in each of their four communities (Winslow Gardens, Linn Health and Rehabilitation, Arbor Hill, and St. Germaine), as well as being a more active presence at LGBTQ+ events in the community.

“We want to show our commitment to helping and providing quality care to everyone, including the LGBTQ+ community,” continued Gamache “I am proud of our staff for making this possible and their continued commitment to providing an inclusive environment for all our residents."

Aldersbridge Communities (formerly known as United Methodist Elder Care) was founded in 1971 to provide communities where older persons can live in comfort, dignity, and with purpose. Winslow Gardens (assisted and independent living), Linn Health & Rehabilitation (skilled nursing, rehabilitation, long-term care), Arbor Hill Assisted Living, and St. Germain Assisted Living provide each resident with the living environment and level of care that best suits their individual needs. Main Office: 40 Irving Ave, East Providence, RI, 02914; 401-438-4456; www.Aldersbridge.org.

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