Local lawmakers are looking forward to Hamilton County communities tackling health challenges like diabetes and obesity through a new state grant.
In 2021, the local lawmakers supported legislation that created the Indiana Health Issues and Challenges Grants, which will award $50 million to local and statewide service providers and planning organizations to address longstanding problems.
State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers) said the Indiana Department of Health is now accepting grant applications, and he hopes local providers like health departments, municipalities and nonprofit organizations apply.
“Chronic health issues not only hurt our quality of life, but also strain our health care system and increase costs,” Jeter said. “This grant gives our counties the ability to build a tailored plan that best suits their community. Now is the time to apply and help improve Hoosiers’ health.”
“We know many Hoosiers are struggling with a number of health issues, from addiction to obesity,” said State Rep. Tony Cook (R-Cicero). “This grant funding can support local solutions to improve outcomes for Hoosiers and help them overcome their health challenges.”
State Rep. Donna Schaibley (R-Carmel), co-author of the law, said funding 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.
“With this funding, those in the community who are connected and aware of the local needs can be part of the solution,” Schaibley said. “Our state is doing well in so many ways, and now we need to invest in our overall health.”
“Hamilton County is home to many groups and organizations that could put this funding to good use,” said State Rep. Jerry Torr (R-Carmel). “Whether a school, employer or health care provider, this is a great opportunity for your group to secure funding and enact change within our community.”
State Rep. Chuck Goodrich (R-Noblesville) said applications for Indiana Health Issues and Challenges Grants are due by Thursday, March 31, with award notices issued by the Indiana Department of Health by July 1.
“The deadline to apply for these grants will be here quickly, so now is the time to go online and apply,” Goodrich said. “With this funding, we want communities to be able to really hone in on their needs and what their citizens need. Whether it’s promoting physical fitness, smoking cessation or healthier eating habits to curb diabetes, we want to be intentional in finding solutions to get Hoosiers healthy.”
Goodrich said Hamilton County organizations can learn more and apply online by visiting in.gov/health/grant-opportunities and clicking on “Health Issues and Challenges Grant.”
State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers) represents House District 88, which includes portions of Marion, Hamilton and Hancock counties.
State Rep. Tony Cook (R-Cicero) represents House District 32, which includes all of Tipton County and portions of Hamilton, Madison, Delaware, Howard and Grant counties.
State Rep. Donna Schaibley (R-Carmel) represents House District 24, which includes portions of Boone and Hamilton counties.
State Rep. Jerry Torr (R-Carmel) represents House District 39, which includes portions of Hamilton County.
State Rep. Chuck Goodrich (R-Noblesville) represents House District 29, which includes portions of Hamilton County.