Funding has been announced for a transformative Appalachian School and Community Health Project that will impact 36 communities across
20 Appalachian Ohio counties and involve 34 school districts and 16 health care partners. Working in collaboration with Nationwide
Children's Hospital, the Appalachian Children Coalition requested funds as part of Gov. DeWine's $500 million investment in Appalachia under the "OhioBuilds - Small Communities - Big Impact - A Plan for Appalachia." This single largest investment in children's health in the state of Ohio works to ensure that every child in an Appalachian Ohio community has access to the essential care and support they need, right within their schools and local neighborhoods.
Understanding the unique challenges faced by healthcare providers in our region, the funding will support a coordinated, yet locally controlled, network of health clinics and extended services across Appalachian Ohio. The Appalachian Children Coalition recognizes that our public schools, educational service centers, and career technical centers are the heart of Appalachian communities and the most reliable way to reach the region's most vulnerable children. By integrating this healthcare network with these community anchors, we can ensure unprecedented access to essential services for thousands of children and families. This project will improve the overall wellbeing and quality of life for decades to come by providing families with greater access to comprehensive healthcare.
Learn more about this transformational project at the following sources: