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Public Health Projects

About the Division

The Public Health Projects Division at the Howard County Health Department focuses on prevention by providing education, resources, and opportunities that support healthy living. Our goal is to empower individuals and families to make choices that prevent illness and injury while strengthening the health of our community.

How We Fit Into Public Health

Public health is about creating the conditions that help us stay well before illness or emergencies occur. Our team partners with schools, community groups, and households to provide tools and support for healthier living, safer environments, and stronger preparedness. By working together with neighbors and local organizations, we aim to ensure prevention and wellness are woven into everyday life in Howard County.

Our Team

  • Bethany Wenger, MSW – Public Health Projects Manager (full-time)
  • Kristina Somers, REHS – Emergency Preparedness Coordinator (part-time)
  • Undergraduate interns in public health, health education, or related fields (currently accepting applications)

Community Support Request Form

Do you live or work in Howard County and need support accessing emergency medications, medical equipment, or harm reduction supplies for yourself or the people you serve?

Complete the form below to submit a request to the Howard County Health Department — we may be able to help!

Submit a Supply Request

2024 Annual Report

Check out what the Health Department has been up to in our 2024 Annual Report, found here!

2024 Annual Report

Coalitions and Alliances HCHD Participates In

HCFAA

Partnered Project: Food as Medicine Program

Howard County Food Access Alliance

SOFR

Partnered Project: The HCHD harm reduction nurse chairs this coalition

Suicide, Overdose, & Fatality Review Team

HCTVF

Partnered Projects: administration of the Indiana Youth Tobacco Survey, conducted Point of Sale surveys, supported school adoption of alternative to suspension programming, presented at A Conversation on Smoking & Vaping in IN meeting

Howard County Tobacco & Vape Free

DFHC

Partnered Projects: Presented with VOICE student and HCTVF at 7th and 9th grade orientations, distribute drug deactivation kits throughout the community

Drug Free Howard County

NPC/FLC

Partnered Project: Development of and participation in the Annual Youth Mental Health Summit

Nonprofit Council & Faith Leader Council

PCA

Partnered Project: Participation in the annual Prevent Child Abuse Conference

Prevent Child Abuse - School Committee

IMPACT

Partnered Project: Participation in routine coalition meetings and collaboration

Infant Mortality Prevention Action Team

MHA-HC

Partnered Project: Participation in routine coalition meetings and collaboration

Mental Health Alliance of Howard County

D6HCC

Partnered Projects: Medical Surge Tabletop Exercise, monthly communication drills, supported development of a patient transportation plan for the region

District 6 Healthcare Coalition

HCEDN

Partnered Projects: COOP training, QPR training, Active Aggressor Recovery tabletop, CrisisReady Howard County

Howard County Emergency Development Network

LEPC

Partnered Project: Chemical Fire Full-Scale Exercise planning and execution

Local Emergency Planning Committee

D6LPHECG

Partnered Project: Reviewing local plan types to ensure LHDs are aligned for developing and maintaining emergency response plans

District 6 Local Public Health Emergency Coordination Group

Contact Information

Bethany Wenger, MSW

Public Health Projects Manager

bethany.wenger@howardcountyin.gov

Public Health Projects
120 E Mulberry St. Rm. 208
Kokomo, IN 46901-46571
Phone (Cell): 765-860-4177
Phone (Desk): 765-614-3100

After Hours Emergency
(765) 457-1105 (Sheriff Dispatch)

Hours

Monday - Friday (8:00am - 4:00pm)

Kristina Sommers, REHS

Emergency Preparedness Coordinator

kristina.sommers@howardcountyin.gov

Emergency Preparedness
120 E. Mulberry, Rm. 208
Kokomo, IN 46901

After Hours Emergency
(765) 457-1105 (Sheriff Dispatch)

Hours

Monday - Friday (8:00am - 4:00pm)