University Health has partnered with LINC Caring Communities and the Morning Star Youth and Family Life Center to make positive changes in Kansas City. Candice Brooks, a Community Relations Officer at University Health, described this collaboration as refreshing and straightforward.
“It starts with a phone call, and we make it happen,” she said. This partnership focuses on delivering Covid and flu vaccinations to those who need them most. It also aims to enhance access to healthy food, medical screenings, and more.
Because of this impactful work, University Health recently awarded LINC the title of Community Partner of the Year. “You make it easy for us to work together for the betterment of the community,” Brooks commented. “We know our community will prosper and have better outcomes.”
LINC’s Director, Trent DeVreugd, echoed this sentiment, highlighting how the partnership has strengthened families in the area. He noted University Health’s efforts in providing care for uninsured individuals and its commitment to promoting healthier lifestyles.
Janet Rhone, the Director of Community Health Strategies at University Health, recalled the early days of this partnership during the pandemic. She remembered discussing the potential for collaboration with Pastor John Modest Miles and LINC President Jane Miles-Bartee. “You’re in the heart of the city, and you don’t just talk about community. You live it,” Rhone said.
This partnership is not just about health services; it addresses broader community issues, such as safety, which DeVreugd pointed out is a significant factor in overall health. By providing fresh produce and working against violence, they are tackling the root causes of health disparities.
Recent statistics show that in many urban areas, access to fresh food can significantly improve health outcomes. According to a 2022 report by the CDC, neighborhoods with better access to fresh produce see lower rates of diet-related diseases.
The positive reactions from the community reflect the importance of this collaboration. Many local residents have taken to social media to praise the efforts of both LINC and University Health, sharing stories of improved health and well-being.
Through this partnership, both organizations are dedicated to building a stronger, healthier community. Their joint initiatives serve as a model for other regions looking to foster collaboration between health services and local organizations.
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