RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about Public Health Thank You Week, Turkey Tactics, National Care At Home Month, the blood test food drive, and Thanksgiving office closures. Health services in Henry and Stark counties will pause for Thanksgiving, as all Health Department offices and First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon close on November 27th and 28th. Limited home services staff remain available for essential home care needs. Residents can call each clinic directly or visit henrystarkhealth.com for additional details and updates. Social media accounts also provide daily information. November is National Care at Home Month, shining a spotlight on caregivers and home care assistants across Henry, Stark, and Bureau Counties. The Henry and Stark Health Department’s Home Services Division offers meal preparation, housekeeping, transportation, and personal care to support independence and comfort for those recovering from illness or needing extra help. For personalized care at home, call 309-852-0492 or visit henrystarkhealth.com. National Public Health Thank You Day is set for November 24th, 2025. This day recognizes the dedication of public health professionals, from nurses to preparedness planners, who work year-round to keep communities safe and healthy.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments announce all offices and First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon will close Thursday, November 27th, and Friday, November 28th, for the Thanksgiving Holiday. Residents are reminded that while clinic operations will pause, limited home services staff will remain on duty to offer essential in-home care during these dates.
Residents seeking health information or services can reach local resources in several ways. Contact the Health Department or First Choice Healthcare Clinic in Kewanee at 309-852-0197, Colona at 309-792-4011, or Toulon at 309-852-3115 for assistance. Detailed information is also available on their website, www.henrystarkhealth.com. Social media platforms offer additional updates—search for Henry and Stark County Health Departments on Facebook, or follow them on Twitter and Instagram. These channels provide timely updates on programs, clinic schedules, and important community health alerts, supporting residents with accessible healthcare resources.
November marks National Care at Home Month, spotlighting the vital work of caregivers and home care assistants throughout Henry, Stark, and Bureau Counties. The Henry and Stark Health Department’s Home Services Division encourages anyone recovering from illness or needing extra help to consider personalized care in their own homes. Services are designed to meet individual needs and may include meal prep, housekeeping, transportation, medication reminders, and personal grooming support. These offerings help community members maintain independence and comfort. For details on arranging home services, call 309-852-0492 or visit www.henrystarkhealth.com.
National Public Health Thank You Day will be honored on Monday, November 24th, 2025. The Henry and Stark County Health Department is joining major public health organizations across the U.S. in recognizing professionals dedicated to the well-being of all Americans. RaeAnn Tucker, Director of Health Promotion, highlights the vital roles played by public health workers, from nurses to emergency preparedness teams. Their tireless efforts range from preventing disease to promoting immunizations and supporting vulnerable community members. Everyone is encouraged to acknowledge these vital contributions, not only today, but year-round.
The Henry & Stark County Health Departments are reminding residents about the variety of public health programs and resources they offer year-round. From immunizations and maternal health services to environmental health initiatives and wellness screenings, the departments encourage community members to take advantage of available support. Residents can reach the Kewanee office at 309-852-0197, Colona at 309-792-4011, or Toulon at 309-852-3115 for more information. Details and updates on programs can also be found by visiting www.henrystarkhealth.com or by following their social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, together with First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee and Toulon, have extended their General Health and Thyroid Panel Blood Test special to benefit local food pantries. The clinic is offering the test for just $40, cash only, when paired with a donation of non-perishable food items, through January 1st. The test includes a full cholesterol panel and is recommended with fasting for best results. Residents interested in supplementing their annual health check-up can call 309-852-5272 for Kewanee or 309-852-3115 for Toulon to make appointments. Non-perishable food donations are welcome during business hours.
If you’re preparing turkey for a holiday meal, safety comes first. Experts warn not to thaw your turkey on the counter, as bacteria multiply rapidly at room temperature. For proper thawing, use the refrigerator, submerge the turkey in cold water—changing the water every 30 minutes—or follow microwave instructions. Avoid washing raw turkey, since splashing juices can contaminate your kitchen. Cook stuffing separately or ensure it reaches 165°F inside the turkey to eliminate bacteria. Finally, always use a food thermometer; the turkey needs to hit 165°F in the thickest parts before you carve and serve. Food safety keeps your guests healthy.
