Holy Cross Health receives $340,000 in educational funding from Bedford Falls Foundation

SILVER SPRING, Md. (Sept. 11, 2026) – Holy Cross Health, part of Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic, today announced that the Bedford Falls Foundation - DAF has provided $340,000 in funding to support six Holy Cross certified nursing assistants participating in its Pathfinder Program, beginning this fall semester.

The Bedford Falls Pathfinder Program is designed to create long-term workforce development by investing in local talent serving vulnerable populations, while leveraging local partners and resources. The program was developed in partnership with Capital Area Food Bank, Catholic Charities - DC, Children’s National Hospital, So Others Might Eat (SOME), Trinity Washington University, and Unity Health Care.

“Certified nursing assistants are at the heart of the compassionate, high-quality care that we provide every day, and investing in their professional growth is an investment in our patients and community,” said Andre A. Boyd Sr., FACHE, regional president and CEO, Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic. “We are deeply grateful to the Bedford Falls Foundation for its generous support of our six colleagues through its Pathfinder Program. This opportunity will help them expand their skills, advance their careers and continue delivering exceptional care while strengthening the future of our workforce.”

The Bedford Falls Pathfinder Program is an innovative workforce development initiative designed to create sustainable pathways into nursing. The program identifies local talent and removes financial, academic and structural barriers to career advancement in nursing. The program acts as an extension of Holy Cross Health’s Career Pathways Program, which provides career advancement opportunities for colleagues in positions requiring a high school diploma or GED.

Bill Conway Jr., who co-founded the Bedford Falls Foundation with his late wife Joanne Barkett Conway, has long been committed to addressing the national nursing workforce shortage. Through the Pathfinder Program, Bedford Falls is investing in pathways that help individuals advance their careers in nursing while strengthening the communities they serve.

“The partnership and collaboration on this initiative with our established partners is deeply meaningful to our foundation,” said Bill Conway. “Supporting pathways for individuals to become registered nurses and advancing the broader health and human services helps build a stronger community and healthier future for all of us.”

Learn more about the impact of Holy Cross Health’s Career Pathways Program on the workforce and community.