Maternal health care falls short in several counties

The U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration stated that six counties in PA do not have access to equitable maternal care, and have been identified as ‘maternal health deserts.’

Additionally, the Department of Health found that the mortality rate for pregnant mothers is 82 deaths per 100,000 live births in PA and that Black mothers are likelier to be impacted.

In response, PA has expanded related Medicaid coverage from 60 days to a full year, and expansion efforts for care will be made through telemedicine and online services.

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Local food bank undergoes expansion 

The Northeast Regional Food Bank in Jenkins Township has been presented $580,000 from American Rescue Plan funds and $250,000 from the 2022 spending bill.

The funding will help supply 15,000 prepared individual meals and groceries to families in need every week.

The funds will also support construction of a greenhouse as well as warehouse expansion. 

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Domestic violence survivors receive care post-pandemic

Luzerne County’s Domestic Violence Service Center has been awarded $500,000 for expansion of services.

The organization operates around the clock to provide a safe space for victims over 30 days, and offers confidential counseling and support services while helping service recipients access resources such as safe long-term housing and job security.

The center uses donations to supply food and personal care products. According to the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence, there were 112 domestic violence fatalities throughout the state in 2021 – and four of them occurred in Luzerne and Carbon Counties. 

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Built environment contributes to poor public health

Historically, public health had not been considered in urban design processes.

Between 30 percent and 45 percent of carbon emissions now result from the built environment.

Changes ranging from wide open public staircases and tree-covered sidewalks to the reduction of vehicles in downtown corridors can mitigate these issues.

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Accessory Dwelling Units and education improve housing for all 

Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) can serve as small rental units on a homeowner’s primary property.

They may function a source of revenue or wealth building for individuals, help senior family members age in place, and act as lifelines in communities with housing shortages.

Patterns in the development of ADUs reveal discrimination in redlined areas, however, so new resources have emerged to address the issue in the Bay Area. 

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Electric school busses emerge as worthwhile investments

Electric school busses contribute positively to public health and are cheaper to operate.

The initial investment in electric school busses is high, but the reduction in carbon dioxide emissions and other air pollutants can improve air quality and public health.

The reduction in maintenance and operation costs – about $200,000 per bus – can make up for the higher initial costs over the course of each vehicle’s lifetime. 

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