Senator Stabenow Announces Support for New School-Based Health Center in R.W. Kidder Middle School
U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow today announced funding for the Center for Family Health to establish a new school-based health center in R.W. Kidder Middle School in Jackson. The Center for Family Health received support through the School-Based Health Center Capital Program, which was authored by Senator Stabenow. The program provides school-based health centers with critical resources for construction, renovation and equipment needs to improve children's access to basic health services. In Michigan, there are more than 100 school-based and school-linked health centers serving more than 200,000 students.
The Center for Family Health will receive $436,443 to establish a new school-based health clinic in R.W. Kidder Middle School. The clinic will provide primary medical care and mental health counseling to students in the Northwest School District.
Senator Stabenow said: "During these difficult economic times, it's essential that we all work together to make sure our children receive the health care they need. Too many children across our state do not have access to a family doctor. I'm pleased my initiative will help Northwest Community Schools continue to provide basic medical and dental care to students during the school day. "
School-based health centers play a major role in providing basic health services for students who do not have access to medical care. Typically, a school-based clinic provides a combination of primary care, mental health care, substance abuse counseling, case management, dental health, nutrition education, health education and health promotion activities.
The Health Resources and Services Administration, an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, oversees the School-Based Health Center Capital Program.
