PROVIDENCE – Health care provider Lifespan has agreed to contribute $800,000 annually for the next three years to the city of Providence, Mayor Angel Taveras announced late Monday.
Lifespan, Providence’s largest private employer, is the first hospital system to make a voluntary contribution to the city, according to a release.
“The agreement we have reached with Lifespan is a groundbreaking partnership that helps Providence take another step forward to strengthen our fiscal ground,” Taveras said in prepared remarks. “This agreement is the first between the city and any hospital, and I hope it inspires the other hospitals who rely on a strong Providence to be a part of the solution that positions our capital city for the future.”
“Lifespan has long been a responsible community partner and a leader in the effort to make Providence a healthier city – especially for our most vulnerable neighbors,” added Taveras.
The hospital system will contribute a total $2.4 million over the next three years. Both Taveras and Lifespan officials cited uncertainty in the health care environment as the reason for the three-year agreement period.
“We recognize that these continue to be challenging times for the city, and we understand a strong Providence is central to the health of the entire state.” Scott Laurans, chairman of the Lifespan board of directors, said in a prepared statement. “This is an important time to stand together, and we are pleased to work with Mayor Taveras and other city officials to assist in the economic recovery of the capital city.”
“As both the largest health care provider and employer in the state, we have worked diligently to be an economic engine for Rhode Island,” said Laurans. “Our action today further demonstrates our commitment to help ensure a strong and vital Providence.”
In a release from the mayor’s office, city officials called Lifespan, which includes Providence-based Hasbro Children’s Hospital, The Miriam Hospital and Rhode Island Hospital, a “vital community partner and an “economic driver in Providence,” adding that “the system is an anchor of the city’s Knowledge District and is a leading source of outside investment for Rhode Island.”
In addition, Taveras, Gov. Lincoln D. Chafee and Brown University President Ruth J. Simmons will make an announcement Tuesday regarding a partnership between Providence and the university.
The press conference will take place at 10:15 a.m. in the State Room of the Statehouse.
