STVCC Receives Michigan Health Endowment Fund
St. Vincent Catholic Charities (STVCC) announces it has received a $70,000 health grant from the Michigan Health Endowment Fund (MHEF). These funds will support their Refugee Health Access program. This program provides access to medical assistance and advice to incoming refugees. For approximately eighteen years, STVCC has provided refugees with access to health care. This takes the form of screenings, follow-up care, health system education, interpretation, transportation, childbirth and surgery. Through the MHEF grant, STVCC will continue providing a continuum of care for about 600 new refugee arrivals each year.
“This health grant is invaluable in allowing us to carry out our mission of welcoming the stranger,” shared Andrea Seyka, CEO of St. Vincent Catholic Charities. “Providing refugees with basic medical needs is a cornerstone of our program, and we’re thankful to continue providing these services.”
Providing the best possible care for refugees is of the utmost importance. STVCC works closely with other health providers including the Ingham County Health Department, Michigan State University Extension Program, Sparrow Hospital, and McLaren – Greater Lansing. This health grant allows STVCC to carry out their mission of assisting refugees through resettlement. Most importantly, it aids in the most urgent aspects of transition for refugees as they strive to reach self-sufficiency.
Adds Judi Harris, director of STVCC Refugee Services, “Many refugees who come to Michigan cannot speak English and have no concept of how to navigate the medical world. We are happy to be able to continue assisting them through interpreters and advisors. We hope to maintain this program in the years to come.”
About The Michigan Health Endowment Fund (MHEF)
The MHEF began with a mission to improve the health of Michigan residents. They aim to achieve this by reducing the cost of health care and emphasizing the health and wellness of children and seniors. Public Act 4 of 2013 established this fund by authorizing certain changes to how Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM) operates in the state. For additional information about the Michigan Health Endowment Fund, visit mhealthfund.com.