Texas County Health Improvement Organization- Our Story
The Texas County Health Improvement Organization is a CHIO that is located in the Panhandle of Oklahoma which includes Cimarron, Texas and Beaver County. With an initial relationship with PHIO through CATCH UP 1.0, Texas County used the CATCH UP 2.0 grant period to expand their current family-centered work in this rural area by implementing cross-sector strategies and supplying a bridge in funding to remove barriers of participation and increase access to resources, especially with populations experiencing health disparities.
Specifically, the focus of Texas County was expansion of community partners in their youth involvement to address social determinants of health. With funding compensation, Texas County was able to increase coalition membership, participation in coordinated activities, as well as local business involvement. For increased partnerships, Texas County engaged with Seaboard Foods for a Coat Drive and raised over $12,000 for the community. With a solid foundation of trust, Texas County established a new partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Human Services through the school-based specialists to implement Handle With Care. Handle With Care is a notice given to designated school staff by law enforcement when a student witnesses a traumatic event, so that the child/teen can be connected to supports, as needed. Amber Costilla, the Director of Texas County supported Handle with Care in the interim study as well as during the legislative session.
Partnering with Crossroads, a support group program run through the Office of Juvenile Affairs that targets at-risk youth and provides mentoring skills and experience, Texas County increased youth participation in events such as the Back to School Fair, Trunk or Treat and Holiday Baskets. The youth stuffed backpacks, created treat baskets with educational information, as well as Holiday gift baskets with needed toiletries. The youth were able to give back to their community and the grant provided an opportunity for volunteer hours and compensation.
Finally, Texas County built new relationships and established a cross-sector coalition in Beaver County. They are also in the process in Cimarron County. The area is forming Panhandle Cares, an organization of aligned vision in this rural community.
Overall, Texas County made great strides during this planning grant period! This grant provided the ability to expand access to resources and fund rural-health initiatives with family-centered and collaborative practices.
Our Community Impact
Youth Volunteer- Texas County
I have really enjoyed volunteering with the Texas County Health Improvement Organization. Not only did I receive service hours, but I learned a lot about my community and how to help.
Amber Costilla, Executive Director
As the Executive Director, CATCH UP 2.0 funds have allowed me to reach additional members of my community through current and new programs and provide services in an inequity hot spot of Oklahoma.
