STATEHOUSE (June 29, 2022) – Local legislators said six agencies serving St. Joseph County recently received a funding boost through a new state grant program aimed at tackling public health challenges.
State Rep. Dale DeVon (R-Granger), 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.
"St. Joseph County, like the rest of the state, deals with numerous health-related challenges," DeVon said. "The funds from these grants will go a long way in raising the health of our local communities."
Recipients serving St. Joseph County and their respective programs that received grant funding include:
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.
"Local providers can use these grants to make a real difference in improving the health and quality of life of those they serve," said State Rep. Jake Teshka (R-South Bend). "These programs help Hoosiers who are often struggling with health and financial issues, and I think it's great to see the state step up in this way to support their efforts."
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."
-30-
State Rep. Dale DeVon (R-Granger) represents House District 5,
which includes portions of St. Joseph County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Jake Teshka (R-South Bend) represents House District 7,
which includes the majority of St. Joseph 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.
