STATEHOUSE – State Rep. Chris May (R-Bedford) said three agencies serving Lawrence County recently received a funding boost through a new state grant program aimed at tackling public health challenges.
May, a supporter of the law establishing the Health Issues and Challenges Grant, said Indiana recently released more than $35 million in grant funding to local and statewide service providers and health organizations. The program’s goal is to help improve health outcomes related to tobacco use, food insecurity/obesity, lead exposure, hepatitis C, chronic disease, and disease prevention programs, including community paramedicine and community health workers.
“It’s essential that we tackle the most common health issues affecting our communities and state,” May said. “Focusing these efforts will improve Indiana’s overall quality of life and encourage more Hoosiers to develop healthy habits.”
The Lawrence County Health Department received money to support programs for elevated blood lead levels, and Flourish, Inc. and Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard received funding for food insecurity and obesity.
Statewide organizations that serve local communities also 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.
According to the Indiana Department of Health, which oversees the program, grant funds must be spent by Dec. 31, 2026, and additional funding will be offered in a subsequent round.
To learn more, visit in.gov/health/grant-opportunities and click on “Health Issues and Challenges Grant.”
