NCH awards $100,000 to aid 15 local agencies

The NCH Community Health and Outreach Board committee has awarded a total of $100,000 across 15 community agencies who received awards up to $10,000 in support of programs that help increase access to care and promote health and wellness.

"NCH is much more than a local health care provider," said NCH President Michael Hartke. "We are a neighbor and an active member of the community. For more than 60 years, we've not only provided medical services, but have worked with community leaders, organizations and businesses to help improve the lives of our family, friends and neighbors throughout the Northwest suburbs."

The three largest grant winners this year have received $10,000 each. The organizations include:

• Hopeful Beginnings of St. Mary's of Palatine, which will use the funds for a comprehensive maternity mental health program for under-resourced women, including counseling for postpartum depression, anxiety and grief.

• WINGS domestic violence program of Palatine, which will use the funds for operational support for Safe House, transitional housing and their NCH on-site counselor.

• Shelter, Inc., which provides housing and counseling services for abused and neglected children.

Other recipient organizations include: Palatine Township Senior Citizens Council, Journeys The Road Home, Northwest Center for Sexual Assault, Bridge Youth and Family Services, Connections to Care, North Suburban Legal Aid Clinic, Clearbrook, Special Leisure Services Foundation, Lemons of Love and more.

For the sixth year, applicant organizations are assessed on criteria such as identifying community needs; collaborating with NCH in addressing those needs; supporting the NCH service area; and ensuring an organization addresses needs not currently offered by other community resources.

For information and to learn more about NCH's commitment to the community, visit www.nch.org.