STATEHOUSE (July 7, 2022) – State Rep. Jim Pressel (R-Rolling Prairie) said three agencies serving LaPorte County recently received a funding boost through a new state grant program aimed at tacking public health challenges.
Pressel, 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.
"These localized grants will provide support to help tackle some of our community's health challenges," Pressel said. "These providers received funds because they have proven programs that are making a positive difference."
The LaPorte County Health Department received money to support programs for lead screenings in children, so they can be tested for potential exposure and be referred for treatment. Northshore Health Centers received a grant to support programs for diabetes and community health workers. HealthLinc, Inc. received funding to support programs for community health workers.
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. Jim Pressel (R-Rolling Prairie) represents House District 20,
which includes portions of LaPorte and Starke counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
