COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – The Community Health Agency’s Board of Health honored two individuals and a collaborative with Hometown Hero Awards at their monthly meeting on Thursday for their support of public health especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Among those honored was Branch County’s C-19 Task Force which is a community collaboration of committed volunteer service groups and agencies who chose to “take action” in support of their families, friends, and neighbors.
They raised over $350,000 to support Branch county residents during the pandemic.
The group provided a donation to the Branch Area Food Pantry and funded the “Fun” Face Shield Project as well as several iPads to support ProMedica Coldwater Regional Hospital’s behavioral health initiative. They also supported Family Promise of Branch County and provided funds to purchase an ultra-cold freezer and data logger allowing the Health Agency to store and monitor COVID vaccine
“The C-19 Task Force played a critical role in the Branch County response to COVID-19,” says Rebecca Burns, Health Officer. “The group donated of their time, talents, and vision to support many facets of the community’s response.”
The Community Health Agency also honored Hillsdale Hospital Chief Executive Officer Jeremiah Hodshire for his efforts in sharing information about COVID-19 and the hospital’s response through regularly scheduled Facebook Live and Podcast presentations.
St. Joseph County United Way Executive Director Kelly Hostetler was honored for supporting the agency’s vaccination efforts since early 2021. The United Way also secured funding and ensured that staff and volunteers had food, snacks, and beverages provided during the agency’s large vaccination clinics. She could also be found in the community providing food boxes, safety checks, and assisting area families to meet their needs.
“The Board of Health is pleased to honor the dedication of these individuals and organizations during one of the most difficult challenges facing public health in the past two years. Our communities and counties have benefited from their efforts and they are commended for their actions,” said Tom Matthew, Branch County Commissioner and Board of Health Chairperson.
All three were nominated by the Health Agency for the state Hometown Health Hero awards. Hostetler was selected to receive her award in the Capitol Rotunda on April 13.
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