As Community Health Improvement Week highlights those advancing public health, Mercy Health is proud to celebrate a major milestone: the first full year of its Community Health Nursing team being trained in Mental Health First Aid.
For more than 40 years, the Community Health Nursing team has served as a trusted presence in neighborhoods across Northwest Ohio. In 2024 alone, the team supported 5,558 individuals through seven impactful programs focused on education, prevention, and access to care throughout a 20-county region.
Recognizing the growing importance of mental health, all Mercy Health community health nurses completed Mental Health First Aid training—an evidence-based program that equips them to recognize and respond to signs of mental health or substance use challenges.
That training proved critical in 2024, as the Community Health Nursing team participated in 369 community events, offering support to countless individuals in crisis or in need of mental health resources.
“Mental health affects every family, every neighborhood. Equipping our nurses with tools to identify and address these needs ensures we meet the whole person—not just their physical health needs,” said Jessica Henry, director, Mercy Health – Toledo Community Health.
Founded in 1984 at Mercy Health — St. Vincent Medical Center, the Community Health Nursing Program was designed to meet the needs of underserved populations by bringing essential services directly into the neighborhoods that need them most. In 2024, 4,689 individuals received support through mobile health screenings, chronic disease education, and referrals to primary care providers.
“Our community health nurses are more than caregivers—they’re advocates, educators, and trusted partners in neighborhoods that are historically underserved or have limited access to care,” Jessica added. “By being present where people live and work, we help bridge gaps and build trust, delivering compassionate care and meaningful education across every corner of our community.”
As we mark Community Health Improvement Week, Mercy Health — Toledo proudly honors the work of its nurses whose outreach, training, and dedication continue to improve outcomes and empower healthier lives throughout the region.