STATEHOUSE (June 22, 2022) – State Rep. Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute) said two agencies serving Owen County recently received a funding boost through a new state grant program aimed at tackling public health challenges.
Heaton, who supported 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 local providers are working hard to manage some of the most persistent health challenges affecting Owen County like obesity and food insecurity," Heaton said. "Ensuring a healthier community here, as well as the whole state, will improve overall Hoosiers' well-being and quality of life."
Flourish, Inc., and Mother Hubbard's Cupboard received funding for food insecurity and obesity programs.
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.
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.
To learn more, visit in.gov/health/grant-opportunities and click on "Health Issues and Challenges Grant."
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State Rep. Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute) represents House District 46,
which includes portions of Clay, Monroe, Owen and Vigo counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
