As many people focus on putting COVID-19 in the rear-view mirror, others continue to struggle with its aftermath. Millions of Americans were left without jobs, unable to pay for housing, unable to attend school, and lost reliable transportation due to financial instability. Many of these obstacles are still felt throughout communities. Here in Greene County, we’re still seeing the effect of the pandemic on a daily basis.
Fortunately, there are many programs available to help those of us still struggling.
From free COVID testing to mental health resources for those still grappling with the effects of the pandemic, there are hundreds of programs available in our community. But navigating them can be difficult. From qualifications to cost, accessing our plethora of resources can be overwhelming. Fortunately, Springfield-Greene County Health is here to help.
With the help of the community health advocate initiative, Springfield Greene County Health is proud to provide trained team members who can who connect people still dealing with the aftermath of COVID to community resources, medical services and lifestyle change programs. Our community health advocates are able to recognize the diverse needs of our community and then serve as a bridge between individuals and families and the programs and resources that are the best fit for their individual needs.
Community health advocates are here to help with whatever your needs may be – even if they seem too great to overcome.
For example, let’s meet Maya.
Maya has been dealing with anxiety and unable to afford quality mental health care since she lost her restaurant job at the beginning of the pandemic. She found out about a program through a local counseling center that may be able to help. Unfortunately, she is not within walking distance and does not have access to reliable transportation. Unsure of what to do next, she confides in her friend about her situation. Her friend tells her about a program the Health Department has that has helped him find some relief in his mental health struggles. He connects her with a Community Health Advocate who can help. Maya works closely with her Community Health Advocate to build an individualized plan that works for her.
Community Health Advocate programs around the country are providing unique interventions to the diverse struggles Americans face today. These individualized plans could include:
- Referrals to substance use treatment programs
- Telehealth mental health resources
- Debt relief programs
- Educational opportunities
- Information about free COVID vaccine and testing opportunities
- And more
There is no plan or problem too difficult that we can’t face together. Here at Springfield-Greene County Health, we want to hear your story in an effort to leave no one alone to face their struggles.
If you or someone you love is experiencing hardship as a result of the COVID pandemic, help is available. Contact one of our Community Health Advocates to get the assistance you need. You can reach out via email at healthoutreach@springfieldmo.gov or call 417-874-1211 to speak to us.