RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice HealthCare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about International Women’s Day, Colon Cancer Awareness Month, free FIT tests, 12 Communities in 12 Months in Orion for the March event, CPR classes, WIC services in National Nutrition Month, and insurance navigators. International Women’s Day arrives this Sunday, with the Henry and Stark County Health Departments partnering with First Choice Healthcare to spotlight women’s health. RaeAnn Tucker notes that clinics in Kewanee and Toulon provide essential services such as annual exams, pap smears, breast exams, and contraceptive counseling. Appointments are available to women of all ages, including those via Medicaid or insurance. This month, residents aged 45 to 75 can pick up free home FIT tests for early colorectal cancer screening—no appointment needed. For updates, call 309-852-5272 or find the Henry and Stark County Health Departments on social media for resources and event information.
Sunday, March 8, 2026, is set aside as International Women’s Day, and the Henry and Stark County Health Departments, along with First Choice Healthcare, are spotlighting women’s achievements and encouraging women to prioritize their health. RaeAnn Tucker, Director of Health Promotion, emphasizes the variety of services available at First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee and Toulon, including annual exams, pap smears, pregnancy tests, contraceptive counseling, breast exams, blood profiles, and immunizations. Services are accessible through Medicaid, most insurances, and some grants.
Women in need of healthcare services can turn to the First Choice Healthcare Clinic, offering comprehensive care at both Kewanee and Toulon locations. Services include preventive screenings, family planning, and general wellness support tailored for women of all ages. Appointments are available by calling Kewanee at 309-852-5272 or Toulon at 309-852-3115. For updates and health resources, connect on Facebook at Henry and Stark County Health Departments or follow the clinic on Twitter and Instagram. Access to quality women’s healthcare is just a call or click away in your local community.
March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and the Henry and Stark County Health Departments are emphasizing the importance of early screening. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer in the United States, but routine tests could prevent many deaths. First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee and Toulon are offering free home FIT tests for residents aged 45 to 75. These easy screenings help detect early signs before symptoms develop, increasing the chances of successful treatment. Symptoms like blood in stool or unexpected weight loss can be warning signs. For more details or to request a free test, contact your local clinic.
The simple test can help detect hidden blood in stool, which may signal early colorectal cancer or polyps. Early detection is key, as polyps can be removed before turning into cancer, and treatment is more effective when cancer is caught early. Clinics in Kewanee and Toulon are providing tests weekdays from 8 AM to 4 PM. No appointment is necessary. For details, call 309-852-5272 in Kewanee or 309-852-3115 in Toulon. Updates and health tips can also be found on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram under the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare accounts.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, alongside First Choice Healthcare Clinics, are hosting a special community outreach on Friday, March 20th, from 8 to 10 AM at Cash Cow Coffee Shop in Orion. Residents can access free FIT home tests for colorectal cancer screening, free blood pressure checks, and safe disposal services for expired or unused medications. Attendees will also find health information, free giveaways, and guidance on health insurance from a Get Covered Illinois navigator. Details for safe medication disposal are available on the Henry and Stark Health website. Questions can be directed to 309-852-0197.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments are rolling out their “12 Communities, 12 Months” initiative, bringing a range of health-related promotions and events to residents throughout the year. The campaign aims to boost community engagement and awareness around key health topics. Residents are encouraged to participate and stay updated on upcoming activities. For more details, contact the Health Department at 309-852-0197, visit www.henrystarkhealth.com, or check out the Henry and Stark County Health Departments’ pages on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for regular updates on events and health resources.
March is National Nutrition Month, and the Henry and Stark County Health Department is putting the spotlight on the WIC Food Supplemental Program. WIC supports the health of local families, providing free groceries, nutrition education, and healthy lifestyle guidance to eligible women and children up to age five. With a shift back to in-person appointments, participants now enjoy easier shopping thanks to the new Illinois WIC EBT Card, which streamlines grocery purchases for the entire household. Expanded WIC hours add convenience for busy families. For enrollment and details, call the Health Department or visit henrystarkhealth.com. WIC remains dedicated to building healthier communities.
The Health Department’s WIC Supplemental Food Program continues to support community health by providing nutritious foods and education to eligible families. Services are available in Kewanee, Colona, Marshall County, and Putnam County for residents who qualify under nutrition and economic guidelines. WIC clients can receive healthy items such as milk, formula, eggs, cereal, fruits, vegetables, juice, and whole-grain products. To access these benefits or for additional details, contact your local office or visit the department’s website to apply online. More resources and information are also available at the USDA WIC site. This program is committed to equal opportunity for all. Interested individuals may also visit www.fns.usda.gov/wic for federal resources.
Families in need of nutritional support can access WIC services through the Henry and Stark County Health Department. WIC, the Women, Infants, and Children program, provides supplemental foods, nutrition education, and healthcare referrals. To learn more or apply, residents in Kewanee can call 309-852-5272; Colona, 309-792-4011; Marshall County, 309-246-8074; and Putnam County, 815-872-2324.
February is American Heart Month, and the Henry and Stark County Health Departments, along with First Choice Healthcare, are highlighting the importance of CPR certification. Heart disease remains the top cause of death for both men and women in the country. Monthly CPR classes are offered on the fourth Tuesday at 110 North Burr Blvd. in Kewanee, running from 4 to 6 PM. Participants will learn to assist infants, children, and adults in cardiac or breathing emergencies, including AED use. The course costs $45, with registration and payment required in advance. For details or to sign up, call 852-0197, extension 231.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, alongside the Get Covered Illinois Navigator Program, are hosting events to help residents secure health insurance. Navigators will be available at several locations throughout Cambridge, Geneseo, and Colona in March, guiding attendees through coverage options and application processes and checking eligibility for financial assistance or Medicaid. If you’ve experienced recent life changes—such as job loss, turning 26, marriage, or moving—you may qualify to enroll outside the traditional open enrollment period. For dates, locations, or to speak with a navigator, call 309-852-5272. Take this opportunity to understand and manage your health coverage needs.
Grow Ministries, 101 N. East St., Cambridge, IL
Tuesday, March 3rd
10:00 am-12:30 pm
Uptown Vapors, 1325 S. Oakwood Ave., Geneseo, IL
Friday, March 6th
12:00 pm-3:00 pm
I-80 Café, 1356 Cleveland Rd., Colona, IL
Monday, March 9th
9:00 am-11:00 am
Chance’s Unique & Collectables, 104 S. State St., Geneseo, IL
Tuesday, March 10th
10:00 am-1:00 pm
Briggs Bistro, 119 W. Exchange St., Cambridge, IL
Monday, March 23rd
11:00 am-1:00 pm