Vanderburgh County Health Department’s Preto3 Program honored with CareSource’s Community Impact Award

(Kokomo, IN – Dec. 1, 2023) – The Vanderburgh County Health Department is proud to announce that its Preto3 program has been honored with the prestigious Community Impact Award and awarded a $5,000 grant by CareSource, a nationally recognized managed care entity.

"CareSource has had a very focused approach to reducing infant mortality in the state of Indiana,” said Steve Smitherman, president of CareSource Indiana. “The Preto3 program provides long-term consistent support for babies and families and plays an invaluable role in bolstering maternal and infant health outcomes. The tireless dedication and personalized support empower families during this critical phase of life, ensuring that every child receives the best possible start. We are immensely grateful for their contributions and commitment to our community's well-being."

The Preto3 program, a flagship initiative of the Vanderburgh County Health Department, is a pioneering home-visiting program led by dedicated Community Health Workers (CHWs). These dedicated professionals provide invaluable support to families from pregnancy until the child reaches three years old. This comprehensive program aims to empower caregivers with essential skills and knowledge that foster a healthy and nurturing home environment.

Every parent, guardian, or caregiver enrolled in the Preto3 program is paired with a dedicated CHW who conducts weekly home visits and delivers the Growing Great Kids™ curriculum. When necessary, CHWs collaborate with a network of professionals, including registered nurses, social workers, lactation consultants, and more, to ensure that families receive comprehensive support tailored to their unique needs.

Preto3 is a complimentary service offered by the Vanderburgh County Health Department, underlining the Department's steadfast commitment to the well-being of families within the community.

"We are truly honored to receive CareSource's Community Impact Award and the accompanying grant. This recognition affirms the dedication and hard work of our Community Health Workers and underscores the immense value of the Preto3 program in supporting families during these critical early years," said Sophie French BSN, RN the supervisor of the Pre to 3 program at the Vanderburgh County Health Department.

The grant of $5,000 is instrumental in furthering the mission of the Preto3 program, allowing for expanded outreach and the provision of essential resources to even more families in need.

About Vanderburgh County Health Department's Preto3 Program

The Vanderburgh County Health Department's Preto3 Program is a pioneering initiative offering vital support to families from pregnancy through a child's third year of life. Through dedicated Community Health Workers (CHWs), the program provides comprehensive, in-home visits that equip parents, guardians, and caregivers with crucial skills and knowledge for creating a healthy home environment. Covering topics from prenatal care to safe sleep practices, the program ensures that every child receives the best start in life. Preto3 is inclusive, welcoming all family structures and is available to residents of Vanderburgh, Gibson, Posey, or Warrick County. This complimentary service reflects the Health Department's commitment to the well-being of families in the community. For more information, please visit preto3program.com.

The Vanderburgh County Health Department in Indiana announced its Preto3 program has been honored with the prestigious Community Impact Award of a $5,000 grant by CareSource, a nationally recognized managed care entity.