WINNEBAGO COUNTY, Ill. (WIFR) – The Winnebago County Health Department (WCHD) is set to receive a $118,000 grant from the state of Illinois to improve mental and behavioral health equity in the region. The funding, announced Monday by Illinois officials, is part of the state’s Health Equity Zone (HEZ) initiative aimed at addressing longstanding health disparities.
The grant, awarded by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), will enable WCHD to expand its “Community of Concern Workgroup.” This initiative focuses on improving access to self-care resources, reducing the stigma around mental health issues, and fostering community resilience. Local leaders believe the funding will play a key role in bridging gaps in mental health care for underserved populations.
“We are excited for the opportunity to address mental and behavioral health through a public health lens and improve health equity in our community,” said Sandra Martell, Public Health Administrator for the Winnebago County Health Department.
Winnebago County is one of two recipients of the grant; McDonough County in Western Illinois will receive over $113,000 to tackle health issues related to obesity, sexually transmitted infections, and mental health.
“The IDPH is proud to support these locally led pilot projects through the Health Equity Zone program,” said Dr. Janice Phillips, Assistant Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health. “By working with local partners who have a deep understanding of their communities, we can implement innovative interventions that will lead to tangible improvements in health outcomes.”
Martell emphasized the importance of community strength in tackling these issues. “We have a lot of strength in our community. We need to build on that strength,” she added.
The Health Equity Zone program is part of the state’s broader Healthy Illinois 2028 initiative, a five-year plan unveiled in early 2024. The plan targets critical public health issues such as chronic disease, mental health, substance use disorders, maternal and infant health, and racial disparities in healthcare access. The funding reflects the state’s commitment to improving health outcomes for all residents, with a focus on vulnerable and marginalized communities.
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