KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Family Health Center received a $2,500 grant from the Michigan Association of Health Plans (MAHP) on Friday, August 4 to assist with funding their Back to School Bash, an event that will offer Well Child Exams for local families.
Officials with the Health Center say this funding is being made available as part of the MAHP’s Tackling Health Care Disparities in Michigan grant, which encourages community-based organizations to collaborate and deploy local initiatives aimed at creating better health outcomes and improving health equity.
“We can’t ignore the disparities that persist in our communities, where access to quality healthcare resources varies greatly,” said Denise Crawford, president and CEO of Family Health Center of Kalamazoo. “Family Health Center is committed to increasing access to 70,000 underserved Kalamazoo residents. This takes creative ideas and investment, and we’re thankful for grant programs like these from MAHP that support our mission to ensure members of the community have access to quality, comprehensive, patient-centered health care.”
“MAHP recognizes the important role local community-based organizations play in improving the health outcomes of Michigan citizens,” said Dominick Pallone, executive director of the Michigan Association of Health Plans. “Organizations like the Family Health Center are instrumental in addressing health equity and providing their community with affordable and accessible health care.”
The Back to School Bash will offer backpacks, school supplies, personal care kits, food and prizes to children aged 3-12 years old. In addition to the on-site examinations, there will be entertainment, games, food and more.
“Real change starts at the local level and I am committed to helping improve health equity in Kalamazoo by working on legislation, building connections, and creating collaborations such as this grant program with MAHP and FHC,” said Rep. Julie M. Rogers (D-Kalamazoo), Chair of the House Health Policy Committee.
MAHP member Meridian Health Plan also donated $1,000 along with MAHP members Aetna Better Health of Michigan and UnitedHealthcare Community Plan giving in-kind donations to FHC’s Back to School Bash.
“Meridian cares deeply about Kalamazoo’s families and is proud to support an event that provides access to well care resources and vaccinations for children in preparing for the upcoming school year,” said CEO and plan president of Meridian Health Plan, Patty Graham.
content provided by Andrea Kerbuski, Martin Waymire, Lansing, MI
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