Funding Recipient Spotlight: Health Connect of South Dakota

Posted in: All Members, Funding, Request for Applications

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We want to highlight the amazing work being done in our region by regularly featuring NNLM-funded projects in our nine states. This week, we are featuring Health Connect of South Dakota’s Healthy Sioux Empire Community-based Community Health Worker (CHW) and Libraries project led by Executive Director Fran Rice.

The “Healthy Sioux Empire Community-Based CHW and Libraries” initiative has made significant strides in supporting community members facing challenges related to social determinants of health, including access to housing, medical care, food, counseling, health insurance, and more. The project successfully integrated a CHW into Siouxland Libraries, allowing for greater access to vital resources. The success of this initiative is evident in the data collected starting with six unique clients in the initial month of the program to eventually 19 unique clients in the final month of the award period. This growth reflects a deepening comfort among library patrons in accessing health services.

The impact of the CHW has been profound, addressing a range of needs beyond housing assistance. A Siouxland Libraries partner stated, “…the CHW has allowed us to better fulfill [the library’s] mission by adding expertise beyond the scope of the library staff. Siouxland Libraries provides many services for the community, but some public requests are beyond our training. The Community Health Worker has been an asset for us and for our citizens.” One success story includes helping a homeless individual address post-operative care challenges by arranging for a place to stay at a hotel located on a healthcare campus.

Looking ahead, the initiative will continue through February 2025, with plans for adding another CHW. As Health Connect of South Dakota continues this vital work, it emphasizes the importance of collaboration and community engagement.

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Looking to obtain funding to create or expand your outreach programming or technology resources? We are currently accepting applications for Year 5. The deadline to apply is coming up on Friday, November 15, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. MT. Please reach out to your state’s point of contact with any questions you may have.

• Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico – Dana Abbey
• Idaho, Montana, Utah – George Strawley
• North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming – David Brown

Planning on submitting an application? Reach out to John Bramble to assist you with a budget review. If you would like to learn more about the grant application process, check out the recording and slides from a recent NNLM webinar.