Comanche County Health Department Bolsters Family Support with New Coordinator
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LAWTON – The Comanche County Health Department (CCHD) is expanding its outreach to vulnerable families with the addition of a dedicated family resource coordinator and community health worker, effective September 22, 2024. This initiative aims to connect residents with essential services and improve overall family well-being.
the Comanche County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a professional services agreement with Maggie Sprague on September 22, 2024, to spearhead this project. The contract, valued at $36,000, will run through June 30, 2026, with Sprague compensated at a rate of $20 per hour. This investment underscores the county’s commitment to addressing the root causes of hardship and fostering self-sufficiency within the community.
Addressing Critical Needs
Sprague’s role will center on building relationships with families facing challenges such as housing instability, food insecurity, limited transportation options, and barriers to healthcare and social services. She serves as a link to essential resources, providing direct support through relationship-based outreach to help families achieve greater stability and self-sufficiency,
explained Amanda Walsh, CCHD communication coordinator.
The health department’s strategy focuses on a holistic approach, recognizing that interconnected issues frequently enough contribute to a family’s struggles. Sprague will work directly with individuals and families navigating poverty, trauma, or systemic obstacles to accessing vital support.
Already, Sprague has begun scheduling meetings with families and collaborating with local partner organizations. The CCHD will regularly monitor her progress and assess the project’s impact throughout the fiscal year.
Did You Know?
Comanche County’s poverty rate is approximately 14.5%, highlighting the significant need for accessible support services. (Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2022)
Project Goals & Expected Outcomes
The initiative is built around four key objectives:
- Strengthening families and promoting self-reliance.
- Improving coordination between health, education, and social service providers.
- Raising awareness of available resources within the community.
- Reducing obstacles to care and enhancing outcomes for those in need.
Pro tip:
Families seeking assistance can contact the Comanche County Health Department directly for facts and referrals.
| Key Project Details | |
|---|---|
| Contractor | Maggie Sprague |
| Contract Start Date | September 22, 2024 |
| Contract End Date | June 30, 2026 |
| Total Contract Value | $36,000 |
| Hourly Rate | $20 |
This project represents a proactive step towards building a healthier and more resilient community in Comanche county. By addressing the underlying factors that contribute to family hardship, the CCHD aims to empower residents and create lasting positive change.
“We are excited to have Maggie join our team and look forward to the positive impact she will have on the families we serve,” Walsh stated.
What challenges do you think are most pressing for families in Comanche County? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Do you know of any local resources that could benefit families in need? Let us know!
Background on Community Health Workers
Community health workers (CHWs) are frontline public health workers who connect individuals and communities to health and social services. They often come from the communities they serve, possessing a deep understanding of local needs and cultural nuances. The role of CHWs has become increasingly recognized as a vital component of comprehensive healthcare delivery, notably in addressing health disparities and improving access to care for underserved populations. The use of family resource coordinators is a growing trend in public health, reflecting a shift towards more integrated and preventative approaches to community well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a family resource coordinator? A family resource coordinator connects families with essential services like housing, food assistance, and healthcare.
- How will this project be funded? The project is funded through a professional services agreement with the Comanche County Board of Commissioners, totaling $36,000.
- Who is eligible for assistance? Families in Comanche County struggling with poverty,trauma,or barriers to accessing social services are eligible for support.
- How will the project’s success be measured? The CCHD will regularly monitor Sprague’s progress and assess the project’s impact on family stability and self-sufficiency.
- Were can families find more information? Families can contact the Comanche County Health Department directly for information and referrals.
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