RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss National Health Center Week, school physicals, WIC, Insurance Navigators, and Medicare Wellness visits. August 3-9, 2025, marks National Health Center Week, with the Henry and Stark County Health Departments joining First Choice Healthcare Clinics to highlight the importance of accessible community health. This year’s theme, “We Are Healthcare,” emphasizes the full spectrum of services available at clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon, including family planning, chronic disease management, mental health support, and convenient walk-in care. The launch of the Illinois WIC EBT Card streamlines grocery benefits for eligible families. Medicare recipients are reminded that annual wellness visits are fully covered and help maintain long-term health. Clinic contact details are available at henrystarkhealth.com.
Mark your calendars for August 3-9, 2025, as the Henry and Stark County Health Departments, along with First Choice Healthcare Clinics, observe National Health Center Week. This year’s theme, “We Are Healthcare,” focuses on the essential role Community Health Centers play in local communities. First Choice Healthcare in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon offers a comprehensive range of services—including family planning, chronic disease management, sports exams, and mental health support—all under one roof. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of accessible and integrated care.
Community health centers like First Choice Healthcare shine as pillars of support, especially during National Health Center Week. The Henry and Stark County Health Department underscores that, alongside a variety of public health services, their First Choice clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon provide essential clinical care. Offerings include sick visits, family planning, exams, chronic disease support, and immunizations. Walk-in services are available in Kewanee and Toulon, with both physical and mental health programs on-site. Integrated care means residents can find comprehensive support close to home.
For details or appointments, contact Kewanee at 309-852-5272, Colona at 309-792-4011, or Toulon at 309-852-3115.
Residents in Henry and Stark counties can now enjoy greater convenience when accessing the WIC program, thanks to the rollout of the new Illinois WIC EBT Card. The single card consolidates benefits for all household members, replacing the need for multiple checks and making it easier to shop for healthy foods. Expanded WIC office hours also aim to accommodate working families and school children. Eligible participants—including pregnant women, infants, children under five, and breastfeeding mothers—can receive supplemental groceries and nutrition education. For details or to apply, visit the Health Department’s website or call their local offices in Kewanee or Colona.
Healther Aldred, RN, adds, “All current WIC participants and households are now issued just one Illinois WIC EBT Card with all the food benefits on this one card; no more handling multiple checks for different members of your family. The WIC process remains the same, benefits are reloaded on your card every three months after contacting and checking in with our WIC Staff.”
The Health Department’s WIC and case management staff are emphasizing services that support healthy pregnancies and families in the community. The WIC Supplemental Food Program provides qualifying residents with nutrition education and a variety of healthy food options, including milk, eggs, formula, cereal, fruits, vegetables, and whole grain products. These programs are designed for those who meet specific nutrition and income requirements. To learn more or to apply, call 309-852-5272 in Kewanee or 792-4011 in Colona, or visit henrystarkhealth.com. Further details can also be found at fns.usda.gov/wic. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments are reminding Medicare recipients that annual wellness visits play a vital role in staying healthy. These visits, fully covered by Medicare with no out-of-pocket costs, are designed to help patients maintain their independence and prevent future health concerns. At First Choice Healthcare clinics, the annual wellness visit includes a review of your medical history, medication checks, a current health and safety assessment, and a customized prevention plan. Staff will also answer any health-related questions. To schedule your appointment, contact the First Choice Healthcare clinic in Kewanee at 309-852-5272, Colona at 309-792-4011, or Toulon at 309-852-3115.
