Nine not-for-profits selected to fill health care gaps
The Hamilton County Health Department has awarded $639,915 in grants to nine non-profits for projects that address health care gaps in Hamilton County.
The grants will be the first funded through the state’s Health First Indiana program created by Senate Enrolled Act 4. The new legislation will invest $225 million in public health over the next two years.
LeMaster
“We look forward to partnering with these health-focused organizations to address the unique health needs of Hamilton County,” Hamilton County Health Department Administrator Jason LeMaster said. “We are confident these services will complement and enhance the work we’re already doing at the Health Department providing our residents with the very best in public health services.”
Applicants were encouraged to propose projects, programs, or activities that addressed issues like Maternal and Child Health, Chronic Disease Prevention, Access to and Linkage to Clinical Care, School Health, and Fatality Prevention Initiatives.
Trinity Free Clinic was the biggest award recipient with $386,898 in funding. Executive Director Mel Wischmeyer says the grant money will help provide partial dentures, bridges, and soon, full dentures and denture repair for low-income seniors and veterans in Hamilton County.
Wischmeyer
“This truly is one of the largest requests for services we receive at Trinity, and patients are heartbroken when they are turned away because we do not currently offer this service,” Wischmeyer said. “This will fill a huge void and restore a wealth of dignity and good health to county residents who lack access to good oral health.”
Each awardee is required to report its progress to the Health Department. To apply for a grant through the Health First Hamilton County (HFHC) program for 2025, interested parties can visit hamiltoncounty.in.gov/1858/Health-First-Hamilton-County. The application deadline will be in September.
