Leading healthcare improvement company honors CourageLIVES with the Premier Cares Award, recognizing the program’s efforts to improve the lives of people who are medically underserved.
BANGOR — CourageLIVES, the flagship program of Saint Andre Home, was named the 2024 recipient of the Premier Cares Award and will receive a $100,000 cash prize from Premier, Inc. A panel of national healthcare leaders selects the Premier Cares Award winner each year, spotlighting community-based healthcare initiatives and providing funds to help winners advance their programs and services. CourageLIVES was selected for the competitive and prestigious award from among national applicants that are providing creative solutions to health status improvement.
Central to CourageLIVES’ mission is the provision of direct care and support, including mental health services, assistance with substance use disorders, and practical needs, ranging from transportation to support for pets. CourageLIVES is committed to not turning anyone away, ensuring long-term support and building enduring relationships with survivors.
“Survivors of human trafficking and extreme violence often face monumental challenges in accessing the care and support they need,” said Michael J. Alkire, president and CEO of Premier. “CourageLIVES provides a lifeline to these individuals, offering not only immediate safety, but also the comprehensive, compassionate care required for long-term healing and recovery. We are proud to honor their extraordinary work with the 2024 Premier Cares Award.”
“The intensity and complexity of the needs of those we serve require a robust support system,” said Carey Nason, the executive director of St. Andre Home. “We are deeply honored by the recognition from Premier, which will significantly bolster our efforts to provide essential services to survivors and help them rebuild their lives.”
A pioneering program dedicated to supporting survivors of human trafficking and other extreme forms of violence, CourageLIVES was founded in 2015 as a program of St. Andre Home in conjunction with the Good Shepherd Sisters. CourageLIVES provides a comprehensive community-based model of support for anyone affected by human trafficking, exploitation or other forms of violence.
For more information about CourageLIVES, please visit www.couragelives.org or call 207-282-3351.
