HERKIMER, NY – Children and families across Herkimer County will benefit from healthier schools, expanded opportunities for physical activity, and access to nutritious foods through a $1.6 million investment from the New York State Department of Health’s Creating Healthy Schools and Communities (CHSC) program. The five-year initiative will create lasting improvements that make healthy choices easier where children live, learn, and play.
Herkimer County HealthNet will serve as the lead organization for the initiative, bringing together schools, municipalities, early childhood education providers, and community partners to implement evidence-based strategies that improve the health and well-being of children and families across Herkimer County. The five-year initiative will run from June 2026 through May 2031.
“This investment will have a lasting impact on the health of children and families throughout Herkimer County,” said Elyse Enea, Executive Director of Herkimer County HealthNet, Inc. “This grant is about creating lasting, community-wide change. By bringing together schools, municipalities, early childhood education providers, and community organizations, we can create environments that support healthier lifestyles, expand opportunities for physical activity, improve access to nutritious foods, and help build healthier futures for children and families across Herkimer County.”
Jeremy Rich, Superintendent of Central Valley Central School District, added: “This investment represents an incredible opportunity to strengthen the connection between health and learning for every child in Herkimer County. When students have access to healthy foods, opportunities to be physically active, and supportive environments, they are better prepared to learn and succeed. We are grateful to Herkimer County HealthNet for bringing our schools and community partners together around a shared vision of creating healthier schools, stronger communities, and brighter futures for all of our children.”
As Herkimer County’s designated Rural Health Network, Herkimer County HealthNet has spent more than two decades bringing partners together to improve health outcomes through collaboration, innovation, and community engagement. This award further strengthens HealthNet’s role as a catalyst for improving the health and well-being of residents throughout Herkimer County.
For more information about Herkimer County HealthNet or the Creating Healthy Schools and Communities initiative, visit www.hchealthnet.org or call (315) 867-1552.
About Herkimer County HealthNet
Herkimer County HealthNet is the designated Rural Health Network serving Herkimer County. Our mission is to improve the health and well-being of those who live, work, play, and learn in Herkimer County.
Media Contact
Elyse Enea
Executive Director
Herkimer County HealthNet
Phone: (315) 867-1552
Email: eenea@herkimercountyny.gov