Community Health Workers Week, recognizing local heroes of Richmond and Henrico Health Districts

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Community Health Workers Awareness Week is this week, and to celebrate, the Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) would like to highlight the roles and impact that Community Health Workers have on the community.

From Aug. 26 to Aug. 30, RHHD will celebrate the first Community Health Workers Awareness Week and would like to recognize the contributions of Community Health Workers in the community.

“Community Health Workers act as a bridge to healthcare resources, social services, and mental health care in communities where access is not always guaranteed,” said Qadira Stewart, community health worker supervisor. “Community Health Workers know that health is not just what we know, it’s also about providing resources like clothing, food, diapers, and educational programming, which have deep impacts on a person’s health and well-being.”

According to RHHD, Community Health Workers facilitate access to services that include:

• Clinical services
• Family planning
• Screenings for chronic diseases
• Annual cervical and breast exams
• Referrals for Medicaid and Family Access to Medical Insurance Security (FAMIS)
• Support group referrals
• Economic resources
• Parenting resources and education

In addition, Community Health Workers work with food access partners like Shalom Farms and Waymakers, as well as mental health service partners like Richmond Behavioral Health Authority and Jewish Family Services for residents seeking assistance.

For more information about National Community Health Worker Awareness, visit the website . To request RHHD for a community event, click here to fill out the form .

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRIC ABC 8News.