RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice HealthCare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss “Wear Red Day” to honor women’s heart health, National Heart Health Month, National Condom Week, insurance navigator events, and the February “12 Communities in 12 Months” at the Kewanee YMCA. Staff at the Henry and Stark County Health Department and First Choice Healthcare wore red today to highlight National Wear Red Day for American Heart Month. This initiative draws attention to women’s heart health, as heart disease is still the nation’s leading cause of death for both genders. Local clinics urge everyone to check their blood pressure and cholesterol, and nurse practitioners in Kewanee and Toulon are ready to help manage risks. Both locations are also offering free condoms and confidential STD testing during National Condom Week, emphasizing the importance of sexual health. For appointments or resources, call 309-852-5272 for Kewanee or 309-852-3115 for Toulon.
Staff at the Henry and Stark County Health Department and First Choice Healthcare donned red attire today in recognition of “National Wear Red Day.” This initiative, observed as part of American Heart Month, is designed to spotlight the ongoing issue of women’s heart health. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. Area residents are encouraged to check their blood pressure and cholesterol, and local family nurse practitioners in Kewanee and Toulon are available to help manage these risk factors.
First Choice Healthcare is encouraging individuals to learn more about preventive care, early detection, and management of heart disease. Area clinics offer a range of services, from screenings to tailored lifestyle programs, supporting patients in making healthier choices. To find out how these resources can benefit you or a loved one, call the Kewanee clinic at 309-852-5272 or reach the Toulon location at 309-852-3115.
Valentine’s Day marks the start of National Condom Week, February 14th through the 21st. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, along with First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee and Toulon, are urging residents to make safe sex a priority and consider condoms a vital addition to their Valentine’s gifts. Condoms remain the only birth control method that also helps prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. Clinics are offering free condoms, confidential STD testing, contraceptive supplies, and counseling. Services are available to everyone—regardless of income—through insurance, Medicaid, cash, and sliding-scale fees.
First Choice Healthcare is inviting community members to reach out for appointments at their Kewanee and Toulon locations. Residents can schedule a visit by calling 309-852-5272 for Kewanee or 309-852-3115 for Toulon. In addition to their phone lines, First Choice Healthcare maintains an active presence on social media, providing updates and health tips via Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. This outreach aims to improve access to healthcare services and keep patients informed about wellness resources and upcoming events. For those seeking reliable, community-focused medical care, connecting with First Choice Healthcare offers multiple convenient options.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, together with First Choice Healthcare Clinics, are inviting locals to a special outreach event as part of their “12 Communities, 12 Months” initiative. On Friday, February 27th, from 9 to 11 AM, residents can stop by the Kewanee YMCA at 315 W. 1st Street for free blood pressure checks, safe acceptance and disposal of expired or unused medications, health information, and giveaways. An insurance navigator from Get Covered Illinois will also be available to assist with questions. For full details on medication and sharps disposal, visit the health department’s website or call 309-852-0197. Additional details, including schedules and health resources, are available at the department’s website. Updates and community involvement opportunities can also be found on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments are reminding residents that Kewanee WIC services have moved to a new location at 109 South Burr Boulevard. The updated WIC office officially began serving the public on February 3, 2026. Public Health Administrator Duane Stevens says this dedicated building will help staff better serve families with maternal and child health needs and support the department’s growing range of services. The move also frees up space for expanded behavioral and mental health offerings at the First Choice Healthcare Kewanee Clinic. Details and application information are available at henrystarkhealth.com or by calling local office numbers.
Families in Henry and Stark Counties seeking nutritional support can access the Women, Infants, and Children, or WIC, program through local health departments. WIC offers nutrition education, healthy food, and breastfeeding support to eligible women and young children. Services are available by contacting the Henry & Stark County Health Departments at 309-852-0197 for Kewanee, 309-792-4011 for Colona, or 309-852-3115 for Toulon. Applications can also be completed online by visiting henrystarkhealth.com. Additional details about program eligibility and benefits are found at fns.usda.gov/wic. This institution provides equal opportunity service.
Anyone searching for health insurance options in Henry and Stark Counties will have an opportunity to get help this February. Health Insurance Navigators from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments, along with Get Covered Illinois, will be assisting residents at several local businesses, including Vorac Pharmacy in Geneseo, Country Morning Coffee in Kewanee, Special Needs Bakery in Galva, and Beck’s Phillips 66 in Kewanee. Navigators can help you sign up for coverage, compare plans, and see if you qualify for financial assistance or Medicaid. Details and event times are available, or you can call 309-852-5272 for more information.
Vorac Pharmacy, 114 S. State St., Geneseo, IL
Tuesday, February 10th
9:00 am-11:00 am
Country Morning Coffee, 205 W. 1st St., Kewanee, IL
Wednesday, February 18th
8:30 am-10:30 am
Special Needs Bakery, 326 Front St., Galva, IL
Friday, February 20th
9:00 am-12:00 pm
Beck’s Phillips 66, 401 E. 2nd St., Kewanee, IL
Wednesday, February 25th
9:30 am-11:30 am