Mercy Housing Mountain Plains has been awarded a 2023 Mercy C.A.R.E.S. Community Reinvestment Grant for $308,200. The grant will fund a new, full-time Health Navigator who will bring additional health education and healthcare access to 650 senior residents across 13 Mercy Housing Mountain Plains communities over three years.

The Health Navigator addresses barriers to care and works with aging residents so they can adopt healthier behaviors, and better manage chronic disease. The Health Navigator also partners with healthcare providers to bring care and resources on-site so residents can access primary and behavioral health care where they live.

Health Navigator Works with Arizona Senior Residents

“The role of the Healthcare Navigator is vital to the health and wellness of senior residents,” said Mercy Housing Mountain Plains President, Shelly Marquez. “Strong healthcare partnerships are the cornerstone of compassionate and comprehensive care, and we are grateful to Mercy Care for awarding us with this generous grant. Partnerships play a vital role in helping us provide the services and support for residents to lead healthier lives, which is a key component of the Social Determinants of Health.”

Mercy C.A.R.E.S., which stands for Community Action Resources Education and Service, is Mercy Care’s community giving initiative. Through grant funding, sponsorships, volunteer efforts, and board participation, Mercy C.A.R.E.S. supports AHCCCS’ Whole Person Care Initiative, which addresses Social Risk Factors to improve health outcomes.

“Mercy Care is thrilled to provide Mercy Housing Mountain Plains with a Community Reinvestment Grant. As an organization dedicated to improving the health and well-being of all Arizonans, and particularly those who are underserved with complex health needs, we are happy to partner with Mercy Housing Mountain Plains in making a positive impact on our community,” says Trisha Stuart, Mercy Care director of community relations. “Through Mercy C.A.R.E.S., we partner with organizations across the state whose health focus areas align with ours such as managing chronic conditions, supporting mental health and well-being, addressing housing insecurity, and empowering recovery for substance use.”

This is the first year that Mercy Housing Mountain Plains has been awarded the Mercy C.A.R.E.S. Community Reinvestment Grant.