Spectrum Generations, doing business as Healthy Living for ME, has been awarded a $400,000 contract from the Maine Department of Health and Human Services for a Rural-Community Health Improvement Project (R-CHIP), Phase 1 15-month planning grant.

The project is a statewide initiative that aims to improve health outcomes and reduce health disparities in rural communities across Maine. The initiative focuses on addressing the unique health needs of rural communities, which often face significant challenges related to access to care, transportation, and economic resources, according to a news release from Gerard Queally, CEO, Spectrum Generations d/b/a Healthy Living for ME.

Through the R-CHIP Phase 1 planning grant, Healthy Living for ME will work with 13 community-based organizations, two health systems, and the Maine Center for Disease Control & Prevention, to identify the health needs and priorities of Somerset and Kennebec counties. The planning process will involve community engagement, data analysis, and the development of a comprehensive community health improvement plan.

Current members of the Somerset and Kennebec Community Partnership include:

• Healthy Living for ME

• Spectrum Generations

• MaineGeneral Medical Center

• Somerset Public Health

• Skills, Inc.

• Capital Area New Mainers Project

• Hallowell Pride Alliance

• Healthy Communities of the Capital Area

• United Way of Kennebec Valley

• Kennebec Valley Community Action Program

• Kennebec Behavioral Health

• Heart of Maine United Way

• Alfond Youth and Community Center

• HealthReach Community Health Centers

• Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter & Services

• Maine CDC Public Health District 5

“We are honored to be selected for this important initiative and look forward to working with our partners to improve the health and well-being of the communities in Somerset and Kennebec counties,” said Queally.

Alex Sydnor, chief strategy officer for MaineGeneral Health adds, “Development of this partnership (SKCCP) is a step in the right direction toward healthcare systems working in tandem with Community Based Organizations to meet the critical health needs of our rural communities.”

The R-CHIP Phase 1 planning grant is the first step in a multi-phase process that will culminate in the implementation of evidence-based interventions and strategies to improve health outcomes in rural communities. The grant period runs through May 31, 2024.

For more information, visit maine.gov/dhhs.

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