CommonSpirit awards Community Health Improvement Grants to two organizations

By SCOTT AUST / Greater Garden City

Two local organizations were presented with CommonSpirit Community Health Improvement Grants during a check presentation ceremony Thursday afternoon at St. Catherine Hospital in Garden City.

LiveWell Finney County received a $22,250 grant and Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas received a $37,250 grant through CommonSpirit.

Ashley Phillips, Mountain Region Director of Community Health and Community Benefit, said the grants reflect CommonSpirit’s commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of the communities they serve. Each year, CommonSpirit invests in community-based organizations that closely align with health priorities and areas of focus. She said $1.4 million in grants have been awarded to 54 different organizations throughout the region.

Jason Justus, President of CommonSpirit Kansas, said organizations like LiveWell and Catholic Charities help make our communities stronger, safer, and healthier.

“You are the extension of our healing ministry. We are so proud to support your work and dedication to the community,” he said.

Debbie Snapp, executive director of Catholic Charities, said the grant helps her organization fulfill its mission to care for the vulnerable and to make sure everyone who comes through the door is treated with dignity and respect. Snapp said the funds will be used to provide emergency assistance.

“We see people who come through our door every day that are maybe half a month’s rent short or getting ready to have their electricity shut off,” she said.

Snapp said there is a population that is working but not making enough to meet basic needs. This grant will help Catholic Charities focus on that population and prevent people from falling into homelessness and poverty.

Heather Wright Renick, LiveWell Finney County Clinical Grant Coordinator, said LiveWell’s work is more than services, it’s about building trust, increasing access, and making sure community members have the opportunity to be healthy.

For several years, part of LiveWell’s work has been assisting residents of East Garden Village, a community of about 3,500 people in 440 homes.

“As a nurse, I’ve seen how systemic barriers impact health. In East Garden Village our work is bringing down those barriers. We’re meeting people where they are, literally,” she said.

LiveWell offers health screenings, vaccinations, education and resources directly into the neighborhood. Thursday morning, LiveWell hosted its eighth monthly produce distribution in partnership with Kansas Food Bank, providing fresh fruits and vegetables.

Wright Renick said the effort is vital because most food resources are concentrated in central and western Garden City leaving a critical gap on the east side. LiveWell is also working with community partners to establish a permanent food bank in East Garden Village, creating sustainable access for families who need it most.

But meaningful outcomes go beyond numbers, she said, they’re found in relationships. Children recognize them as the “shot ladies” during vaccination clinics and residents have stopped her at Quicker Market to talk about their blood pressure or to share updates on their health.

“Their families engage. Neighbors show up,” she said. “That trust is what makes this work possible. That is what health equity looks like in action. Removing barriers, listening to community voices, and ensuring access. And it’s only possible because of this grant.”