RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice HealthCare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about the “Basics Initiative, IL,” Poison Prevention week, Nutrition Month, monthly CPR classes, 12 Communities in 12 Months for March in Orion, and Insurance Navigators. The Henry and Stark County Health Department is spotlighting National Poison Prevention Week from March 15th to 21st, urging families to make safety a priority. Over two million poisonings occur nationwide every year, most happening at home and affecting young children. Residents are encouraged to secure chemicals and medications, use child-resistant containers, and always check dosages in good light. Poisonous household items include cleaning agents, over-the-counter medicines, and vitamin supplements. Immediate help is available through the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. More tips and resources can be found at henrystarkhealth.com, as the community focuses on keeping families safe.
The Bureau, Henry & Stark Regional Office of Education, along with area health departments, is introducing the “The Basics, IL” initiative to help boost brain growth in young children from birth to age three. Superintendent Kathy Marshall explains that key brain development takes place in these early years. “The Basics” program focuses on five crucial strategies: maximizing love, managing stress, talking, singing, and pointing, counting and comparing, exploring through play, and reading together. The initiative seeks to expand collaboration with hospitals, schools, libraries, and more, aiming to foster learning opportunities and family engagement.
The “Basics, IL” initiative is seeking to broaden its network of community partners in an effort to support early childhood development. Key organizations like hospitals, libraries, health centers, schools, community centers, childcare providers, and churches are encouraged to join in. Participating partners will host family engagement stations, offering resources such as engaging books, Mega Bloks, tables, stools, and educational posters to benefit local families. These interactive spaces are designed to spark children’s curiosity while strengthening family bonds. Those interested in supporting young learners can connect with the Regional Office of Education #28 at 309-936-7890 for details.
The Henry and Stark County Health Department is highlighting National Poison Prevention Week from March 15-21, urging families to focus on safety in their homes. Over two million poisonings are reported each year, with 90% occurring at home and over half involving children under six. The department recommends simple steps like securely closing child-resistant packaging, keeping chemicals and medicines out of reach, and always checking dosages in good lighting. Households are reminded to store items such as personal care products, cleaning agents, and adult-strength supplements safely. Immediate help is available via the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.
In addition to the poison prevention tips above, parents and caregivers should follow these safety tips to reduce the risk of unintentional poisonings.
- Use child-resistant packaging properly by closing the container securely after each use or, if available, choose child-resistant unit packaging, which does not need to be re-secured.
- Call (800) 222-1222 immediately in case of poisoning.
- Do not put decorative lamps and candles that contain lamp oil where children can reach them. Lamp oil can be very toxic if ingested by young children.
- Always turn the light on when giving or taking medicine so you can see what you are taking. Check the dosage every time.
- Avoid taking medicine in front of children.
More than 2 million poisonings are reported each year to the Nation’s poison centers. Among the potentially toxic household products referenced in calls to the poison control centers were:
- Personal care products, including baby oil and mouthwash containing ethanol;
- Cleaning substances, including drain openers and over cleaners;
- Over-the-counter pain relievers – including ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin – and cough and cold medicines;
- Hydrocarbons, such as lamp oil and furniture polish; and
- Adult-strength vitamins and supplements containing iron.
Residents of Orion are invited to the latest “12 Communities, 12 Months” health outreach this Friday, March 20th, at Cash Cow Coffee Shop, located at 18 13th Avenue. From 8 to 10 AM, attendees can access free FIT home tests for colorectal cancer screening, dispose of expired or unused medications safely, and receive complimentary blood pressure checks. Health department staff will be on hand with giveaways and valuable information. The event also features a representative from Get Covered Illinois, who can answer questions about health insurance options. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to improve community health in Henry and Stark Counties. Full details and disposal guidelines can be found online or by calling 309-852-0197.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments have launched their “12 Communities, 12 Months” campaign, spotlighting health promotions and events throughout the year. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of free screenings, vaccination clinics, and wellness activities tailored to each community. These initiatives aim to improve public health and foster community engagement. To participate or find out which activities are coming to your area, call the Health Department at 309-852-0197. Additional details, including event schedules and resources, are available online at www.henrystarkhealth.com. Updates can also be found on their Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages.
March marks National Nutrition Month, a time when the Henry and Stark County Health Departments, alongside First Choice Healthcare, encourage residents to prioritize healthy eating. This year’s theme, “Discover the Power of Nutrition,” highlights how smart food choices support energy, immunity, and long-term well-being. Health experts recommend meal planning to help reduce food waste while fueling healthy bodies. The departments remind families about the WIC Food Supplemental program, now featuring a convenient Illinois WIC EBT Card. Eligible participants can receive nutritious groceries and guidance at no cost. More details and application forms are available at henrystarkhealth.com or by calling 309-852-5272.
“Knowing which nutrients your body needs, the foods that contain them, and how much fits into your healthy eating plan are all part of making smart and savory choices,” said RaeAnn Tucker, Health Department Director of Health Promotion. “Age, gender, body type, family history, existing health conditions and daily routines all play a factor in determining which foods we should eat more of and which we should avoid when trying to optimize our health.”
The WIC Supplemental Food Program is providing crucial support for local families by offering nutritious food options and nutrition education to those who qualify based on nutrition and financial needs. Program participants can access items like milk, baby formula, eggs, cereal, fruits, vegetables, juices, whole-grain breads, and tortillas. The Henry and Stark County Health Department encourages residents interested in these benefits to reach out for more details. Applications can be submitted online through their website or by calling (309) 852-5272. Additional resources and federal program information are available at www.fns.usda.gov/wic. Equal opportunity is extended to all applicants.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, along with First Choice Healthcare, are inviting residents to participate in monthly CPR certification classes. These sessions, held on the fourth Tuesday of each month from 4 to 6 p.m. at 110 N. Burr Blvd., Kewanee, aim to empower community members with life-saving skills. Training covers emergency recognition, care for breathing and cardiac issues in all age groups, and proper use of AEDs. Registration and a $45 fee are required in advance due to class size limits. For more information or to reserve a spot, call 852-0197, extension 231.
Residents in Henry and Stark Counties seeking health insurance assistance can meet with Health Insurance Navigators from the Get Covered Illinois program at two upcoming local events. Navigators will be available at Briggs Bistro in Cambridge on Monday, March 23rd, from 11 AM to 1 PM and at Caffeine & Carbs in Geneseo on Wednesday, March 25th, from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM. Attendees can receive help comparing plans, filling out applications, and exploring financial aid options. Those who have experienced a qualifying life event may be eligible for enrollment outside the regular period. For details, call 309-852-5272.
Briggs Bistro, 119 W. Exchange St., Cambridge, IL
Monday, March 23rd
11:00 am-1:00 pm
Caffeine & Carbs, 1225 S. Oakwood Ave., Geneseo, IL
Wednesday, March 25th
8:30 am-10:30 am