The Macon County Health Department and 4 other Central Illinois health care organizations were recently awarded six grants through programs that together provided nearly $8 million statewide this year to help improve the oral and overall health of Illinoisans.
The Health Equity Grant and COVID-19 Renewal Grant programs are funded by Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation and Illinois Children’s Healthcare Foundation. The programs aim to improve health care across the state — especially among children — through education and access to quality care.
The Macon County Health Department will receive a $133,000 COVID-19 Renewal Grant. The Macon County Health Department Dental Clinic is a six-unit dental clinic with digital radiograph and computer software. Grant funding will supplement salaries and bring on more team members to allow greater flexibility in the number of patients seen while still maintaining safe capacity numbers.
“These programs make a difference in countless lives by helping Illinois children and families get the health and dental care they need,” said Lora Vitek, executive director of Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation, the 501(c)(3) charitable arm of Delta Dental of Illinois. “Beyond improving access to care, these grants also provide education, which is key to setting the foundation for a lifetime of good health.”
Bob Egan, senior program officer of Illinois Children’s Healthcare Foundation, said the grants aim to break down barriers preventing children from accessing quality, comprehensive oral health services.
“Our vision is for every child in Illinois to grow up healthy,” Egan said. “Illinois Children’s Healthcare Foundation is proud to partner with Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation in this important work of eliminating health disparities across the state.”
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