craigdailypress.com

Craig — On behalf of the Board of Directors and management team of the Northwest Colorado Visiting Nurse Association, Inc., we urge your support for Moffat County's important health and education ballot initiatives.

Our region was recently awarded designation for Medically Underserved Population and Health Professional Service Area, which means we lack adequate services and providers for the uninsured.

These two initiatives are key for our region's future growth and viability. In order for rural residents and communities to thrive, strong education and health services are essential. A multitude of studies demonstrate the importance of healthy, educated residents of all ages. As the community health provider for the region, we know firsthand the challenges and costs associated with vulnerable residents.

Our own work with community health assessments and the work of Yampa Valley Partners Community Indicators Report allows us to monitor the social trends such as health status of moms and babies, violent crimes, suicide rates and graduation rates. While many trends have been favorable, many appear to be worsening.

Education and health improvements go hand in hand for the well-being of our entire county. We urge you to vote for ballot initiatives 1A and 3A as they are key investments in our future.

Sincerely,

The Board of Directors of Northwest Colorado Visiting Nurse Association

Sue Birch, Executive Director, Northwest Colorado Visiting Nurse Association

Cole White, Director of Community Care, Northwest Colorado Visiting Nurse Association

Ann Irvin, Nurse Family Partnership Supervisor, Northwest Colorado Visiting Nurse Association