Do you know about these community resources?
Open Door’s mission is to improve quality of life for individuals and the broader community. We believe that access to healthcare services is essential for people to thrive. That’s why we offer care to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. But healthcare is only one piece of the puzzle.
Medical providers can recommend ways to live a healthier life, but things like food access, housing, transportation, education, make or break a person’s ability to put healthy behaviors into practice. For patients dealing with extra challenges, our caring and informed Community Health Workers (CHWs) are available to learn about their unique needs and guide them to the right community support services.
Since our CHWs are so well-connected, we asked them to share about some of their favorite organizations and resources in Delaware County.
Left to right: Jessica Rosales, Rachel Roberts, Julie Collins, Alicia Wilson
Rachel Roberts, CHW
“I often steer people toward Second Harvest Food Bank’s Getting Ahead program. Over the course of 16 weeks, program participants come together to figure out what keeps them stuck and how to move toward more self-sufficiency and self-determination. The program provides financial incentives, food, a meal each week, AND childcare. Plus, they will work with people longer-term to set them up for success.
I love this program because it guides people from survival mode to closer to thriving. It helps them rely less on community support and gives them tools for a new, self-sufficient future. Programs like these are so important, especially as funding for things like free food, free diapers, and free clothing are not as sustainable as they used to be.”
Julie Collins, CHW
“I typically work with the older population, and I'm constantly referring to the Muncie Delaware County Senior Citizens Center. It's such a wonderful organization that offers a lot of support and events for the older population. It can be hard as you get older to make friends and find social activities. They offer a diverse event calendar every month, food pantry, a thrift store, legal services, and more.”
Jessica Rosales, CHW at Open Door White River
“The Delaware County Family Resource Center is an incredible resource that isn’t widely known across the community. The FRC provides:
open hours with access to computers, free fax, free printing, WIFI, on-site community navigators, and a Kid’s Corner to keep kids busy;
material assistance like diapers, shelf-stable meals, toiletries, car seats, pack-n-plays;
education on topics like nutrition, safe sleep, and car seat checks; and
special family events like Family Cooking Club and Dino Daze.
They also post about other family-friendly resources on their Facebook page. It’s a great place for Delaware County families to find support and connection.”
Alicia Wilson, CHW and Open Door Connections Neighborhood Ambassador
“I want to recommend Recovery Café Muncie. Anyone going through any type of recovery can be a part of the community. You can get a hot lunch, participate in fun and meaningful activities, and connect with others who understand recovery. They have partnerships with local businesses and organizations to help with resume building, fixing your credit, relationship advice, and even things like crafts and holiday parties. They also have a food pantry and clothing closet.
They recently moved to the Old Muncie Friends Church (418 W. Adams Street) because they needed more space. I’m there every Wednesday as part of Open Door Connections and I am always treated like family. It’s a place where everyone is embraced.