To improve health across our region, we invest in our communities. Our strategy includes providing these critical building blocks of health:
As part of our commitment to healthy communities we’re working with residents and community organizations to create safe places to play and exercise. Much of this happens through the development and enhancements of parks, trails, and open spaces.
Improving health in schools is one of the best ways to support our communities. Research shows that improving the health of everyone in the school community also creates better education outcomes for kids. That’s why we’re committed to Thriving Schools, a broad national health effort for K-12 schools.
Now, more than ever, there’s a critical lack of mental health support for people in communities across Washington state. We focus on depression, suicide prevention, and addressing stigma related to mental health issues.
How we helpWe offer support for school-based mental health programs. We also team up with other dedicated organizations to build a culture of mental health in our communities. Offering free continued education for health providers increases the availability of skilled practitioners to under-resourced communities. In addition, we are among the many supporters in the Alliance for South Sound Health, helping create a Pierce County inpatient mental health facility. Collaborating with other organizations, including those listed below, we can help provide critical support.
Building a strong foundation Communities across the country need support to move out of poverty into financial stability. Along with access to health care, Kaiser Permanente is committed to building community wealth. Currently we offer scholarships and job readiness programs. We also work to harness our economic power as an anchor institution by investing in the communities where we are based.