Illinois Department of Public Health announces grant opportunities promoting community health workers

SPRINGFIELD, Ill., (KBSI) — The Illinois Department of Public Health has announced a grant opportunity to promote the community health worker profession and advance health equity in the state.

A lead organization will be awarded up to $25,000 to develop a multi-year plan to support and integrate community health workers into public health, healthcare and human services organizations.

Community health workers serve as a bridge between healthcare and social services, providing critical support to their communities.

“Illinois’ public health depends on building trust in our communities,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “Community health workers are frontline workers who have a closer understanding of the communities they serve.”

The grantee will be eligible for additional funding of up to $2 million over three years to implement the plan.