In a significant development for Lyon County, the Healthier Lyon County Coalition has been selected by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS) to participate in the third phase of the Pathways to a Healthy Kansas initiative.
This collaboration aims to enhance community health through focused efforts on healthy eating, active living, commercial tobacco prevention, and mental health.
About the Pathways Initiative
Launched in 2016, the Pathways to a Healthy Kansas program is BCBSKS’s largest community grant initiative.
It provides funding and support to community coalitions across Kansas, enabling them to implement evidence-based solutions that promote health and well-being. The program focuses on five key areas:
- Economic Stability
- Education Access and Quality
- Health Care Access and Quality
- Neighborhoods and Built Environment
- Social and Community Context
These areas are designed to work synergistically to create healthier communities.
Healthier Lyon County Coalition’s Role
The Healthier Lyon County Coalition, a program of United Way of the Flint Hills, has been instrumental in promoting health initiatives within the county.
With a coalition comprising over 75 organizations and 140 individuals, the group has been dedicated to fostering a healthier environment for residents.
Impact of Previous Phases
In the earlier phases of the Pathways initiative, Healthier Lyon County achieved notable milestones:
- Infrastructure Enhancements: Development of sidewalks, school crosswalks, and the Lyon County Fairgrounds walking trail.
- Access to Healthy Foods: Expansion of healthy food options through grocery stores, restaurants, childcare centers, food pantries, and rural farmers markets.
- Recreation Projects: Establishment of a multi-use court in Admire and a garden project at Presbyterian Manor, allowing residents to grow and enjoy their own food.
These initiatives have significantly contributed to improving the health and well-being of Lyon County residents.
Goals for Phase 3
In the third phase, Healthier Lyon County aims to advance initiatives that foster a healthier, more inclusive community. Key priorities include:
- Promoting Family-Friendly Workplace Policies: Enhancing employee and family well-being.
- Improving Access to Youth Physical Activity Opportunities: Encouraging active lifestyles among young residents.
- Advocating for “Food is Medicine” Policies: Addressing nutrition and food accessibility.
- Expanding Community Gardens or Farms: Providing local sources of fresh produce.
- Incorporating Health Considerations into Local Policies: Creating a stronger foundation for community-wide wellness.
These objectives align with the coalition’s mission to support and encourage initiatives, policies, and resources that improve health in Lyon County.
Funding and Support
Each Pathways community, including Healthier Lyon County, receives coordination assistance from BCBSKS to get started.
Additionally, organizations within Lyon County have the opportunity to apply for non-competitive implementation grants to fund projects that will help reach the coalition’s goals for the initiative.
Community Engagement
The success of the Pathways initiative relies heavily on community involvement. Healthier Lyon County continues to engage local residents, organizations, and stakeholders to participate in health-promoting activities and policy advocacy.
Conclusion
The re-selection of Healthier Lyon County Coalition into the Pathways to a Healthy Kansas initiative underscores a continued commitment to enhancing the health and well-being of Lyon County residents.
Through collaborative efforts and targeted interventions, the coalition aims to create a healthier, more vibrant community for all.
FAQs
What is the Pathways to a Healthy Kansas initiative?
A program by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas that provides funding and support to community coalitions across Kansas to implement health-promoting initiatives.
What are the key priorities for Healthier Lyon County in Phase 3?
Promoting family-friendly workplace policies, improving access to youth physical activity, advocating for “food is medicine” policies, expanding community gardens or farms, and incorporating health considerations into local policies.
How can residents get involved with Healthier Lyon County’s initiatives?
Residents can participate in local health-promoting activities, join community meetings, and collaborate with organizations to support the coalition’s goals.
