STATEHOUSE (June 29, 2022) – Local lawmakers said several agencies serving Jackson County recently received a funding boost through a new state grant program aimed at tackling public health challenges.
State Rep. J. Michael Davisson (R-Salem), member of the House Public Health Committee and supporter 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.
"Local health organizations and nonprofits are best positioned to tackle local health challenges, and that's why this grant program directs funding to their proven programs," Davisson said. "Indiana recognizes that we have to do more to raise the health of Hoosiers, and that starts at the community level and addressing issues that matter most."
Recipients serving Jackson County and their respective programs that received grant funding include:
"Local health organizations are always working hard to meet the needs of the community, but unfortunately the uncertainty in our economy and record inflation can exacerbate problems and strain resources," said State Rep. Jim Lucas (R-Seymour). "That's why the timing of this grant funding is particularly important, and it's great to see the state target resources to local programs that work."
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.
"It's essential that we tackle the most common health issues affecting our communities and state," said State Rep. Chris May (R-Bedford). "Focusing these efforts will improve Indiana's overall quality of life and encourage more Hoosiers to develop healthy habits."
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. Jim Lucas (R-Seymour) represents House District 69, which includes
portions of Bartholomew, Jackson, Jennings and Jefferson counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. J. Michael Davisson (R-Salem) represents House District 73, which includes
Washington County, and portions of Jackson, Lawrence, Orange, Clark and Harrison counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Chris May (R-Bedford) represents House District 65, which includes all of
Brown County, most of Lawrence County and parts of Monroe, Jackson and Johnson counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
