To live healthier lives, people need access to health information, supportive services, nutritious food and opportunities for physical activity. Local organizations, advocacy groups, public institutions and private-sector partners are increasingly working together to address these challenges and connect people with resources where they live.
This collaborative approach was on display in Trenton, New Jersey, where Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) joined forces with the FIFA World Cup 2026™ New York New Jersey Host Committee, the U.S. Soccer Foundation, the City of Trenton with Mayor Reed Gusciora, and the Trenton Parks & Recreation Department to host the BMS Kickoff for Community Health event, designed to expand access to health resources and strengthen local connections.
The shared goal of the day was profound: making health and wellness resources more accessible to those who need it most. It celebrated the opening of a new mini-pitch, designed as a gift and permanent asset for the city of Trenton and its residents, providing a space for soccer, recreation and community connection for years to come. Families also enjoyed a community health fair with live music, connected with advocacy organizations, received educational health materials, learned about local services and received fresh groceries through a collaboration with Goodr, a social impact company working to address food insecurity across the United States.
More than 27,000 pounds of food—equivalent to approximately 22,500 meals—were distributed to 750 households representing 23 zip codes.
"At its core, health equity is about access and making sure where people live doesn't determine the opportunity to be healthy," said Andrew Whitehead, Vice President and Head of Population Health at Bristol Myers Squibb.
Around the world, access to care, health information and essential resources continue to shape health outcomes. The BMS Kickoff for Community Health brought that support directly to Trenton—combining food access, health education and key services in one place, while uniting community organizations, local leaders, advocacy groups and private-sector partners around a shared goal.
The event also left something permanent behind: a new mini-pitch that will continue to serve residents long after the day concluded. The mini-pitch represents a tangible symbol of what becomes possible when collaboration is rooted in the community itself.
This event was made possible through the collaboration of Bristol Myers Squibb, the FIFA World Cup 2026™ New York New Jersey Host Committee, U.S. Soccer Foundation, the City of Trenton with Mayor Reed Gusciora, and the Trenton Parks & Recreation Department.
