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AUTHORIZING ACCEPTANCE OF THE ILLINOIS HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION, ENHANCING CHILDREN'S HEALTH THROUGH FAMILY-RUN ORGANIZATIONS GRANT
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WHEREAS, During COVID-19, there was a significant negative impact on the physical and mental well-being of children and families. Black, Latino, and Native American families are being disproportionately affected, as noted by the National Academies of Sciences. This was also true for the Kane County Community. After the pandemic, our parent leaders conducted a survey of 420 Spanish-speaking families in Kane County through a Community Forum. The survey revealed that families were experiencing long wait times-sometimes months-before receiving care. This delay was not only due to the increased demand but also a shortage of Spanish-speaking service providers.
WHEREAS, In response, parent leaders and the Kane System of Care worked together to organize more informal, peer-to-peer support services aimed at alleviating these waitlists. These services were designed to complement existing professional care by supporting families during the time between making and receiving an appointment, rather than replacing traditional services.
WHEREAS, acceptance of this grant will fund the establishment of a Family-Run Organization (peer services) focused on mental health, that will offer Kane County a significant opportunity to intentionally promote mental health equity. This will be achieved by enhancing accessibility to basic needs and mental health resources for all families. Moreover, continuous input from families remains important to the development of this system of care, offering valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by specific communities and populations.
WHEREAS, the Kane County Health Department has applied to receive funding from the Illinois Children's Healthcare Foundation in the amount of one hundred and fifty thousand dollars ($150,000) to be utilized from January 1, 2025...
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