Congressman Pete Visclosky announced today that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resources and Services Administration has awarded two grants to HealthLinc, of Valparaiso. Both awards were granted under the Affordable Care Act for Capital Development in Health Centers program, one for Immediate Facility Improvement, the other for Building Capacity.
According to HealthLinc CEO Beth Wrobel, the Immediate Facility Improvement grant will be used to upgrade existing locations. The Building Capacity grant will be used to purchase a new facility in Valparaiso, allowing HealthLinc to assist an estimated additional 5,500 patients each year. The new facility will offer expanded services for older adults and greatly enhanced dental care. It will also allow HealthLinc to increase medical and behavioral services, as well as optometric care.
Ms. Wrobel said of the grant, “HealthLinc is pleased to receive a capital grant for a new location in Valparaiso. We feel we were able to receive this grant due the support of many in our community—especially the City of Valparaiso, Porter Hospital, Porter County Community Foundation, United Way of Porter County, and countless other partners. Last, but not least, we appreciate Congressman Visclosky’s and Senator Lugar’s support of our application.”
Congressman Visclosky said, “HealthLinc is a vital asset in our community. The organization’s dedicated staff works tirelessly to provide those in need with access to affordable healthcare. I am pleased that HealthLinc’s good work will be able to continue and expand due to these federal investments, as well as the support of HealthLinc’s community partners.”
HealthLinc offers a variety of medical services, targeting people living below 200% of Federal Poverty Level, the uninsured, and underserved. HealthLinc operates five facilities across Northwest Indiana, and serves patients from across the state.
The award allotted for Immediate Facility Improvement totals $275,930, and the award allotted for Building Capacity totals $5,000,000.