The Local Health Equity Action Team (LHEAT) in Geary County announces a partnership to address access to winter resources as a health equity concern during the harsh winter months.
In Geary County, nearly 19% of residents and almost 29% of children live below the poverty line. Combined with economic challenges and limited access to transportation, these conditions can leave individuals and families without adequate cold-weather items. During freezing temperatures, the lack of proper coats, hats, and gloves increases the risk of hypothermia, missed school days, and lost work hours.
To help address these challenges, LHEAT has partnered with several local organizations to expand access to warm winter clothing and related resources. Partner organizations include:
- Konza Prairie Community Health Center / Konza Closet
- House of Ruth
- Ruth’s Closet
- Cloud County Community College
- Magdalene Project
- Holiday Hamper
As pictured, LHEAT and House of Ruth provided warmth for the 2025 Christmas Socks for Seniors. Items were delivered to residents at the Tallgrass Nursing Facility in Junction City. Together, these partners are coordinating clothing distribution efforts and increasing awareness of available community resources to help families and individuals stay warm, safe, and healthy throughout the winter season.
This initiative is supported through funding from Communities Organizing to Promote Equity (COPE) at the University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMed).
About the Local Health Equity Action Team (LHEAT):
LHEAT is a coalition within Live Well Geary County that works to identify and address factors impacting health outcomes across the community. Through collaboration and partnership, LHEAT strives to advance health equity and create a healthier Geary County for all. Community members interested in attending the next LHEAT meeting can email [email protected] for more information.