STATEHOUSE (June 29, 2022) – Local legislators said three agencies serving Elkhart County recently received a funding boost through a new state grant program aimed at tackling public health challenges.
State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury), supporter of the law establishing the Health Issues and Challenges Grant, said Indiana recently released more than $35 million in grant funding to local and statewide service providers and health organizations. The program's goal is to help improve health outcomes related to tobacco use, food insecurity/obesity, lead exposure, hepatitis C, chronic disease, and disease prevention programs, including community paramedicine and community health workers.
"Our communities need more resources to address health-related issues, which is why these grants are so important," King said. "The grant funding directly supports local organizations and their proven programs help improve health outcomes for local residents."
Maple City received money to support programs for cancer, Elkhart County Health Department received money to support programs for elevated blood lead levels, and Goshen Health received money to support programs for food insecurity and obesity.
Statewide organizations that serve local communities also received grants, including the National Kidney Foundation of Indiana, the Indiana Rural Health Association, the Health Foundation of Greater Indianapolis, Health By Design and the Indiana Breastfeeding Coalition.
"Whether addressing lead poisoning in children, increasing cancer prevention efforts, or addressing food insecurity and obesity, these grant dollars will go a long way in supporting Elkhart County," said State Rep. Doug Miller (R-Elkhart).
According to the Indiana Department of Health, which oversees the program, grant funds must be spent by Dec. 31, 2026, and additional funding will be offered in a subsequent round.
"These health providers and nonprofits are already making a positive difference in our area and in lives of those they serve, so it's great to see them receive additional support," said State Rep. Tim Wesco (R-Osceola). "The Health Issues and Challenges grant is a great way to help local communities tackle local health issues."
To learn more, visit in.gov/health/grant-opportunities and click on "Health Issues and Challenges Grant."
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State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury) represents House District 49,
which includes the eastern portion of Elkhart County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Doug Miller (R-Elkhart) represents House District 48,
which includes portions of Elkhart County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Tim Wesco (R-Osceola) represents House District 21,
which includes portions of Elkhart and St. Joseph counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
