Join the Angelina County & Cities Health District’s Exciting Planning Summit: Shape the Future of Our Community!

The Angelina County and Cities Health District is taking steps to prepare for future health emergencies. They’re bringing together community leaders to help shape a strategic plan. Kristina Childress, a Senior Public Health Official, emphasizes the importance of community input in this process.

More than 60 local leaders met recently at the Pitser Garrison Convention Center in Lufkin. Their goal was to discuss ways the health district can better serve the community. "We need to know what our elected officials want so they can make informed decisions," Childress stated.

Tara Watson-Watkins, the President and CEO of the Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce, mentioned that improving education about public health services is vital. Many non-profit organizations aren’t fully aware of the resources available to them.

Demetress Harrell, CEO of ‘Hospice in the Pines,’ noted that the health district played a crucial role during the pandemic. Their presence helped many residents navigate the challenges they faced.

This summit was just the start of a broader conversation. The input gathered will help the health district develop a five-year plan aimed at addressing community needs and enhancing public health services. By responding to local feedback, they hope to be better prepared for whatever the future may hold.

In recent years, the importance of such planning has become even clearer. According to a report from the CDC, nearly 60% of Americans believe their communities should be more prepared for public health crises. Engaging local leaders is an essential step in ensuring that communities can respond effectively in times of need.

This approach not only fosters collaboration but also builds on the lessons learned during the pandemic. As we adapt to a world where health risks can emerge unexpectedly, initiatives like this are crucial for safeguarding our communities.

For more information on public health readiness, you can see the CDC’s guidelines on emergency preparedness here.

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