Health and Human Services

Health & Human Services

Focus: Addressing community health needs, including access to healthcare (physical and mental), support for vulnerable populations, and responding effectively to public health challenges facing Caldwell County.

My Commitment as Your Commissioner:

The health and well-being of our residents are foundational to a thriving Caldwell County. This means ensuring access to quality healthcare, supporting those facing challenges, and proactively addressing public health concerns. As your County Commissioner, I am committed to working collaboratively to strengthen our health and human services network, ensuring that resources are used effectively to support the diverse needs of our community. Here’s how I plan to be helpful:

1. Support and Strengthen County Health Department Initiatives:
   
   

   • How I'll Help: Our County Health Department is vital for preventive care, environmental health, and responding to health crises. As Commissioner, I will support providing the necessary county funding and resources for the Health Department to effectively carry out its essential functions – from immunizations and disease surveillance to health education and protecting our environment (like ensuring safe water and septic systems). I will champion their efforts to address local health priorities, such as combating chronic diseases, and ensure they are prepared to respond to any public health emergencies.

2. Advocate for Improved Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services:
   
   

   • How I'll Help: Access to mental healthcare and substance abuse treatment is critical, yet often challenging, particularly in rural areas. As Commissioner, I will actively engage with our regional behavioral health management entity (LME/MCO) to strongly advocate for increased availability of mental health and substance abuse treatment providers and services within Caldwell County. I will support county-level initiatives that complement regional efforts, such as Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) for our first responders, exploring potential jail diversion programs, and fostering partnerships that integrate behavioral healthcare into primary care settings. Addressing the devastating impact of the opioid crisis through prevention, treatment, and recovery support will remain a key focus.

3. Ensure Robust Support for Social Services (DSS):
   
   

   • How I'll Help: The Department of Social Services provides a crucial safety net for children, families, seniors, and individuals facing hardship. As Commissioner, I will prioritize ensuring DSS receives the necessary county resources to effectively administer vital programs like Child Protective Services, Foster Care, Adult Protective Services, food assistance (SNAP), Medicaid eligibility determination, and support for seniors. Recognizing the demanding nature of their work, I will support efforts to recruit and retain qualified DSS staff and foster strong collaboration between DSS and other community support organizations.

4. Address Homelessness Through Collaboration:
   
   

   • How I'll Help: Homelessness is a complex issue requiring a coordinated, compassionate response. As Commissioner, I will actively support collaborative efforts between county departments (DSS, Health, Sheriff's Office), Veterans Services, healthcare providers, local non-profits, and our faith community to address homelessness in Caldwell County. This includes supporting initiatives focused on outreach, connecting individuals with mental health and substance abuse resources, exploring options for emergency shelter and support services, and advocating for strategies that increase access to stable, affordable housing.

A healthy community requires accessible healthcare, strong support systems for those in need, and proactive public health measures. As your Commissioner, I pledge to work diligently and collaboratively to strengthen Caldwell County's health and human services, ensuring a healthier future for all our residents.