Salem Health has awarded two $30,000 Community Investment Grants to increase health services to vulnerable populations -- through Mano a Mano Family Center and Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency’s HOME Youth Services.
A new community health worker at Mano a Mano will help low-income families identifying as Latinix or Hispanic find primary care providers. Peer-led meetings will increase social connections in a culturally appropriate way, focusing on COVID-19 resources and information. This should increase testing -- and contact tracers when infections are confirmed.
At HOME Youth Services, a new navigator and staff training will connect underage homeless youth to services such as school, medical and dental care, counseling and substance abuse prevention as they enter Taylor’s House, an emergency shelter serving this population.
“Achieving good health requires, among other things, access to resources,” said Leilani Slama, Salem Health chief communications and community relations officer. “Salem Health is proud to invest in community partners committed to creating environments conducive to health for vulnerable populations in our area.”
Salem Health awards investment grants each year. Congratulations to the winners – and to their proactive work addressing the underlying health issues to keep our community healthy and safe.