Programs
From healthy aging to healthy schools, Herkimer County HealthNet leads four major initiatives that connect residents with the resources, support, and opportunities they need to thrive. Explore our current programs below, or see the past initiatives that helped shape a healthier Herkimer County.
Programs
Social Care Network & Navigation
Good health goes beyond doctor’s visits. Our Social Care Network & Navigation program connects individuals and families with the everyday resources that make life easier and healthier, including food, housing, transportation, and other essential services, all at no cost.
Age Friendly Herkimer County
With more than 21% of Herkimer County residents over age 65, Age-Friendly Herkimer County works to reduce barriers and expand opportunities so older adults can age with dignity, independence, and connection. Guided by a countywide Action Plan and eight domains of livability, this initiative brings together HealthNet, the Office for the Aging, and the Age-Friendly Coalition.
Creating Healthy Schools & Communities
Creating Healthy Schools and Communities is a five-year, $1.6 million New York State Department of Health initiative led by Herkimer County HealthNet. The program partners with schools, municipalities, and community organizations to expand access to nutritious food, increase physical activity, and build healthier environments for children and families across Herkimer County.
Rural Health Care Network
As Herkimer County’s New York State-designated Rural Health Network, HealthNet works to improve access to care, strengthen coordination among providers, and introduce needed services for rural communities across the county.
- Transportation Access & Coordination
- Suicide Prevention & Mental Health
Classes
StrongPeople Living Well
Strong People Living Well is an evidence-based strength training program that helps adults build strength, balance, and mobility through regular group exercise. Open to all fitness levels, it’s especially popular with older adults looking to stay strong, independent, and connected. Classes are offered at locations throughout Herkimer County. To learn about upcoming classes and registration, contact Herkimer County HealthNet at (315) 867-1552.
Keepin’ It REAL Rural
Keepin’ It REAL Rural is a youth-focused, evidence-based prevention program that helps middle school students in participating Herkimer County school districts build communication, decision-making, and resistance skills to make healthy choices and avoid substance use. HealthNet partners with local schools and Catholic Charities to offer the program during the school year, empowering young people with the confidence and skills to make healthy decisions, navigate peer pressure, and build a strong foundation for their future. Schools interested in bringing the program to their students can contact Herkimer County HealthNet at (315) 867-1552.
Past Successes
Over the years, HealthNet has led initiatives that reached their goals and left a lasting mark on Herkimer County.
Creating Healthy Places to Live, Work, & Play
A five-year NYS Department of Health grant that made it easier for residents to be active and eat well. Successes include the county Trail Guide, community space renovations, and new playgrounds at Russell Park and Benton Hall.
CNY IMPACT (Initiatives for Multi-Sector Public Health Action)
A regional partnership focused on preventing obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke through healthier environments and lifestyle change programs across Herkimer County.
Mohawk Valley Mile: Through CNY IMPACT, HealthNet collaborated with community partners to create Mohawk Valley Mile routes in Herkimer (two routes), Ilion, Mohawk, and Frankfort. Each marked route follows sidewalks and park trails chosen for safety, with nearby parking, good lighting, and curb cuts. One mile takes most people 20 to 30 minutes, and walking it daily meets the recommended 150 minutes of exercise a week.
Lead-Free & Healthy Homes Mohawk Valley
A coalition formed in 2016 with The Community Foundation and regional partners to reduce childhood lead poisoning across Herkimer and Oneida Counties by 2030.
Lead Screening Project
Placed LeadCare II point-of-care testing equipment in community health clinics and physician offices across Herkimer and Oneida Counties, increasing on-site blood lead testing and compliance with NYS testing requirements for children and pregnant women.