What's Happening?
The Healthy Communities Coalition of Lyon and Storey Counties (HCC) is enhancing its food pantry services in Dayton, Silver Springs, and Yerington by integrating health and wellness outreach. These pantries are not only addressing food insecurity but
also providing resources for overall community well-being. The pantries host visits from organizations like the Empowered Go mobile wellness clinic, which offers free services to women at risk for opioid use disorder. Additionally, the pantries distribute Naloxone kits to combat opioid overdoses and provide medication lock boxes and disposal kits. They also offer information on tobacco cessation and family planning supplies. Managed care organizations like SilverSummit Healthplan and CareSource Nevada are expanding their services into rural areas, providing information on Medicaid and Medicare. Community Health Workers are available at each pantry to guide individuals to accurate health information and resources.
Why It's Important?
The expansion of services at HCC food pantries is crucial in addressing both immediate and long-term health needs in rural Nevada. By providing access to health resources and education, these pantries are playing a vital role in community health promotion and substance use prevention. The availability of Naloxone kits and medication disposal options directly contributes to reducing opioid-related harm. Furthermore, the involvement of managed care organizations in rural areas ensures that residents have access to necessary healthcare information and services, potentially improving health outcomes and reducing healthcare disparities.
What's Next?
HCC plans to continue its outreach efforts with scheduled visits from health organizations and managed care providers. These initiatives aim to further integrate health services into the community, enhancing access to care and promoting health education. The ongoing presence of Community Health Workers will support these efforts by providing personalized guidance and connecting individuals with local resources. As these programs expand, they may serve as a model for other rural communities seeking to address similar health and safety challenges.
