Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) are honored to announce that the City’s Community Health Worker (CHW) Division has been named the 2025 Community Health Worker Program of the Year by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the Massachusetts Association of Community Health Workers.  

Presented annually at the Community Health Worker Conference, the award honors exceptional programs that improve community wellbeing through trust-building, innovation, and direct service. 

“This is a well-earned recognition for a team that brings compassion, persistence, and deep community knowledge to every aspect of their work,” said Mayor Ballantyne. “Our Community Health Workers are helping connect residents with life-saving resources and support. They are transforming public health in Somerville from the ground up.” 

The award follows a comprehensive review of the CHW Division’s policies, practices, and impact, including testimonials from residents and Mayor Ballantyne. This year’s honorees include CHWs Han Hogan-Rigg, Cynthia Bonilla, Emmanuel L. Charles, Larissa Loschiavo, and CHW Manager Andria Benvenuto. 

Honoring Community Health Workers

On Tuesday, June 24, Mayor Ballantyne signed a proclamation honoring the week of June 15 – 21, as CHW Awareness and Appreciation Week in Somerville.

About Somerville’s Community Health Worker Division  

Launched in 2023, the City’s CHW Division is housed within the Health and Human Services Department and serves as a critical link between the City, community-based organizations, and residents. CHWs provide harm reduction education and services to community members and businesses, support clinics at the Somerville Homeless Coalition, help residents enroll in public benefits, and offer referrals to social and health services. 

For more information on the CHW Division or to request their services, email chw@somervillema.gov