Monroe County received more than $1,577,000 in state funds to use on health initiatives. This is a significant jump from 2023’s $125,500.
The funds from the Health First Indiana initiative are dispersed to the county health department and community health programs.
The initiative comes from SEA 4, which was signed into law in 2023. The fund distributed $75 million last year, and distributed $150 million for the upcoming fiscal year.
The funds are to be used on “core” public health services, which includes services like maternal and child health, tobacco and vaping cessation, immunizations, chronic disease prevention and more.
Read more: All 92 counties opt in for 2025 public health funding
The Monroe County Health Department is using the funds for a new position that will expand services, according to a recent release.
The department also bought radon test kits, hygiene supplies, blood pressure monitors and glucose monitors to be given out to local nonprofits, schools, and during community outreach.
It's also investing in free nutrition and meal kits for families, according to the announcement.
Part of the funds were distributed to the following organizations:
- IU Health received $222,200 for immunizations, tuberculosis case management, lead case management, infectious disease surveillance and chronic disease. It also received $65,000 for liaison services to improve student health at Monroe County schools.
- Healthnet will receive $20,000 for prenatal care.
- City of Bloomington Parks and Recreation will receive $3,520 for 70 youth to take the Red Cross’ summer swim program.
- Limelight Recovery was awarded $5,000 for in-person substance use disorder therapy.
