By DONNA SCHAIBLEY
State Representative
It’s clear Indiana needs to do more to address our greatest health challenges, especially with the high prevalence of obesity, smoking and other chronic conditions. That’s why the state is partnering with local organizations to tackle issues head on through the Health Issues and Challenges Grant program.
Funding is available to local and statewide service providers and planning organizations, and I encourage them to apply. Grants can be used to prevent or reduce mental and physical health issues for Hoosiers, including in the areas of tobacco use, food insecurity, obesity, lead exposure, hepatitis C, and chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, asthma and cancer. Applications must be completed online at in.gov/health/grant-opportunities by Nov. 18.
In 2021, I co-authored legislation to create the grant program so local providers like Aspire Indiana Health can apply for and receive funding to help improve outcomes. In June, Indiana released its first round of grant funding totaling more than $35 million.
In this first round, Aspire received funds to implement an at-home cardiovascular monitoring program for at-risk individuals. Other local providers like the Heart and Soul Clinic, the Hamilton County Health Department and Teter Organic Farm also received funds. Statewide organizations that serve our local communities 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.
Hoosiers facing health challenges need access to resources to live happy, healthy lives. As a member of the House Public Health Committee, I will continue to look for new and innovative ways to improve our state’s overall health. To learn more about Health Issues and Challenges Grants and to apply for funding, visit in.gov/health/grant-opportunities and click on “Health Issues and Challenges Grant.”
If you need additional help or have an idea on how we can work better together to address health issues, please contact me at (317) 232-9863 or email H24@iga.in.gov.
State Rep. Donna Schaibley (R-Carmel) represents House District 24, which includes portions of Boone and Hamilton counties.