Wayne HealthCare Receives $100,000 Federal Grant to Establish Darke County Rural Health Network

GREENVILLE, OHIO — Wayne HealthCare has received a $100,000 federal grant to establish the Darke County Rural Health Network, an initiative aimed at improving access to healthcare resources and strengthening community partnerships throughout Darke County.

The Rural Health Network Development Planning Grant was awarded by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). Wayne HealthCare will collaborate with the Wayne HealthCare Foundation and several local organizations to identify gaps in healthcare services and develop solutions to better serve area residents.

The one-year grant, which runs through June 30, 2027, will support the development of a community-wide strategic plan focused on mental health, substance use prevention and improving coordination among healthcare providers and support services.

"Strong rural healthcare depends on more than the services provided within the walls of a hospital. It takes meaningful partnerships and a shared commitment to the communities we serve," said Wayne HealthCare CEO Jeff Subler.

Subler said the funding will allow local organizations to build on existing resources and work together toward a healthier future for Darke County.

The network's core partners include Wayne HealthCare, the Darke County General Health District and Recovery and Wellness Centers of Midwest Ohio.

Participating organizations are already working on initiatives involving Mental Health First Aid, suicide prevention education and improving mental health resources for students and families.

Another component of the community's mental health efforts is Porchlight, an online mental health and wellness platform that became available November 1.

The resource provides mental health self-assessments, educational materials and other tools designed for children, teenagers, adults and older residents.

The platform is available at porchlight.crediblemind.com.

Wayne HealthCare Foundation Director Lauren Henry said the grant provides an opportunity to strengthen cooperation among organizations already providing important services throughout the county.

The grant will primarily fund planning and coordination rather than the creation of new healthcare services. Officials hope the resulting strategic plan will help the network pursue additional funding for long-term improvements.

For more information about the Darke County Rural Health Network and its participating organizations, visit WayneHealthCare.org.