Utica, NY — Upstate Caring Partners’ Community Health & Behavioral Services is proud to announce it has been selected as a recipient of the 2026 Health Equity Innovation Award from Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. This annual award supports nonprofit organizations dedicated to reducing health disparities and improving health outcomes throughout the region.
The award will support Community Health & Behavioral Services by funding a community-awareness campaign for the newly opened Supportive Crisis Stabilization Center (SCSC). The SCSC provides 24/7, voluntary, short-term care for people in mental health or substance use crises, acting as an alternative to emergency rooms by providing immediate support, de-escalation, coping skills, peer support, and connections to ongoing treatment in a safe, home-like setting. The program was recognized for its innovative approach, strong community partnerships, and commitment to advancing health equity.
The Health Equity Innovation Awards reflect Excellus BlueCross BlueShield’s ongoing commitment to strengthening community health by investing in initiatives that expand access to care, address social drivers of health, and support underserved populations.
“We’re honored to receive this award and grateful to Excellus BlueCross BlueShield for its support,” said Jenni Barlow Gagnon, Upstate Caring Partners’ Executive Vice President for Behavioral Health Services. “This funding will strengthen our outreach so people know where to go for immediate support. Too often, people who need support the most are the least likely to hear about new resources because of stigma, transportation challenges, limited internet access, or other real-life barriers. This award helps us meet people where they are with clear, accessible information, so they can find help sooner.”
For more information about Upstate Caring Partners and Community Health & Behavioral Services, please visit UpstateCP.org
Upstate Caring Partners provides innovative programs and services that support
and create opportunities for people of all abilities.
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PHOTO CAPTION: FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Daniel Crowell, Melanie Sarafin (Upstate Caring Partners Foundation); Andrea MacDiarmid, Tony Vitagliano (Excellus BCBS); Jenni Barlow Gagnon (UCP Community Health & Behavioral Services)
Sincerely,
Katie Giacovelli | VP of Marketing and Communications
125 Business Park Drive | Utica, NY 13502
O: (315) 927-2086
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