Alaska Regional Hospital announces HCA Healthcare Foundation's $25,000 grant to YMCA Alaska

Anchorage, Alaska — Alaska Regional Hospital, as a part of HCA Healthcare, announced Friday that the HCA Healthcare Foundation has awarded a $25,000 grant to YMCA of Alaska to support the work they do to help promote heart health for Alaskans. The funding is part of the HCA Healthcare Foundation’s Healthier Tomorrow Fund, a community impact fund with an initial investment of $75 million focused on addressing high priority community needs.

‌The grant announcement was made on National Wear Red Day® during a check presentation and tour at the YMCA of Anchorage, Alaska and aligns with American Heart Month, reinforcing both organizations’ shared commitment to improving community health outcomes.

"With this grant, the HCA Healthcare Foundation is helping us address high-priority health needs by supporting measurable health initiatives in the community we serve," said Mark Roberts, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Alaska Regional Hospital. "By partnering with the YMCA, we’re supporting a continuum of care that empowers individuals to actively manage their heart health and extending care beyond the hospital setting."

According to the State of Alaska Department of Health, heart disease and stroke are leading health concerns in Alaska. In fact, about 1 in 3 (32%) adults have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and many have high blood pressure or high cholesterol without knowing it. These conditions increase the risk of serious health problems, including heart attack and stroke.

Nate Root, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of YMCA of Alaska, said grant funds will be used to expand the blood pressure self-monitoring program by increasing outreach and accessibility, and will support extending offerings to other parts of the state.

"Funds will also support more medical YMCA memberships for program attendees, the purchase of additional program supplies such as larger blood pressure cuffs, scales, pulse oximeters, and healthy lunches for participants," Root added. 

Funding the Healthier Tomorrow Fund at the HCA Healthcare Foundation is one example of the many ways HCA Healthcare is making a positive impact in the communities it serves. In 2024, HCA Healthcare provided charity care, uninsured discounts and other uncompensated care at an estimated cost of $4.4 billion. Additionally, HCA Healthcare contributed more than $48.5 million to community organizations in 2024.

"HCA Healthcare colleagues are driven by our mission to care for and improve human life," said Virginia Tenpenny, Vice President of Community Engagement at HCA Healthcare. "That mission extends outside the walls of our facilities and into our communities. Partnering with other organizations has always allowed us to unlock possibilities for improving health and well-being."

For more information on the HCA Healthcare Foundation, visit the website.