Youngstown Times

State Rep. Monica Robb Blasdel (R-Columbiana County) has announced that the Brown Local School district is set to receive a substantial amount of funding. The school district will be receiving $2,627,950 for the establishment of a new 3,000-square-foot community wellness center. The funding for this initiative is part of the new Appalachian Children's Health Initiative, which is a component of the Appalachian Community Grant Program. The approval for this funding was granted by the State Controlling Board during its recent meeting on Monday.

Robb Blasdel expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, "The new wellness center will be a tremendous resource for the students and families in the Brown Local School District. By providing greater access to physical and mental healthcare, we are putting students in the best position to succeed in the classroom and preparing them for a bright future."

The project is being carried out in collaboration with the Aultman Health Foundation. The planned wellness center aims to offer a wide range of services, including healthcare access, mental health support, addiction and recovery services, CARE Team Services, as well as wellness opportunities for both staff and members of the community. The center will be operational on weekdays throughout the year and will be staffed by a nurse practitioner and a medical assistant. While students will be given priority, the facility will also be open to staff and the wider community.

The establishment of this wellness center is a significant step towards promoting the overall well-being of the school community. The next meeting of the State Controlling Board, where further developments may be discussed, is scheduled for April 15, 2024.