Health & Nutrition:
Human Health

Community Health Coalitions

A Grassroots Initiative for Healthier Mississippi

Current Situation

Mississippi State University Extension Service realizes that local citizens can do much to impact health care in their communities. As a partner in the Mississippi Rural Health Corp, Mississippi State University Extension Service was instrumental in the formation of coalitions in the early 1990s and continues to facilitate and support Community Health Coalitions today.

The purpose of a grassroots community health coalition is to bring together a group of local citizens representing different geographic areas in a county who are interested in the health and well being of the citizens in that county, the healthcare delivery system and access to health services. Currently, over twenty counties have distinguished themselves as having active coalitions with Extension involvement. Additionally, in several counties Extension personnel are in the process of forming or revitalizing the coalitions. Although much is being done to assist in improving the health and healthcare of Mississippians, much remains to be done. Therefore, the Mississippi State University Extension Service Community Health Coalitions are continuously growing in number and membership.

Extension Service Agents and Specialists work with over five hundred community volunteers in addressing, planning and implementing the activities of the community health coalitions in their counties. Thousand of individuals are reached each year with health-related information through programs and activities sponsored by the community health coalitions. Coalitions provide Extension personnel an avenue for collaborating with other health-related coalitions, partnerships and service providers.

For additional information about Community Health Coalitions contact:
Rachel Wellborn by email at rachelw@ext.msstate.edu

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Mississippi State University Extension Service Health Coalition?

What counties have MSU-ES Community Health Coalitions?

What health issues are addressed by the coalitions?

Other Information about Health Strategic Planning for Communities

Awareness (Coalition Newsletter)
Strategic Planning
Community/Goverment

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