Health

Local communities receiving almost $3.5 million in health care grants

By WEEK Reporter

Local communities receiving almost $3.5 million in health care grants

August 6, 2012 Updated Aug 6, 2012 at 1:20 PM CDT

SPRINGFIELD, Ill -- The Illinois Department of Health (IDPH) announced Monday that it is awarding almost $3.5 million in grants to communities.

Local coalitions consisting of community organizations, local health departments, school districts, municipalities, chambers of commerce, hospitals and health providers will receive funding to increase the availability of healthy foods, promote physically active lifestyles, reduce exposure to second hand smoke and implement other health-focused programs.

"Diseases such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes, are leading causes of death, disability and rising health care costs in our state and nationwide," said IDPH Director Dr. LaMar Hasbrouck.  "But this is not something the health department, community organizations, government or the health care industry can tackle on their own.  It will take all of us working together to help people live healthier lives and reduce medical costs.

The We Chose Health grants are a multi-year initiative to support obesity and tobacco prevention in Illinois communities.  Several local organizations will be getting grants to support the surrounding communities.

The McLean County Health Department will receive $200,000 in grants.  The Knox County Health Department will receive $144,279 in grants.  The Henry County Health Department will receive $56,480 in grants.

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