The resolution authorizes the appropriation of $10,000,000 to the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) for its Community Health Worker (CHW) initiative. This initiative aims to train and integrate CHWs into public health and clinical teams to promote health equity and resilience, particularly in communities disproportionately affected by COVID-19. The program focuses on equipping CHWs with essential skills in public health, pandemic response, and health system navigation, while also addressing social determinants of health.

The allocated funds will support the placement of CHWs in community-based organizations to enhance community resilience. The program will collaborate with local communities and various health initiatives to hire, supervise, and develop the CHW workforce, as well as evaluate the program's sustainability. The resolution emphasizes the importance of embedding CHWs within existing health equity frameworks and creating leadership opportunities for them, thereby reinforcing the state's commitment to improving public health outcomes.