U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow today announced a federal grant for Marquette County Health Department to expand the school-based health center at Gwinn High School. Marquette County Health Department received the grant through the School-Based Health Center Capital Program, a competitive initiative which was authored by Senator Stabenow. The program provides school-based health centers with critical resources for construction, renovation and equipment needs to improve children's access to basic health services. In Michigan, there are more than 100 school-based and school-linked health centers serving more than 200,000 students.

Marquette County Health Department will receive a $500,000 federal grant to expand the Gwinn Adolescent Health Clinic at Gwinn High School. The clinic provides a place for students to access primary medical and mental health care within the school building. For more information on the Gwinn Adolescent Health Clinic, please click here.

Senator Stabenow said: "During these difficult economic times, it's essential that we all work together to make sure our children receive the health care they need. Too many children across our state do not have access to a family doctor. I'm pleased my initiative will help Gwinn Area Community Schools provide basic medical care to students during the school day. "

Corrine C. Brownell, Personal Health Director, Marquette County Health Department said: "Our health department is extremely happy to have an opportunity like this to expand the services for the Gwinn schools. The Gwinn Community, Gwinn School Board, school staff and the Marquette County Health Department are dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the students. This is a huge project. It will need the support of our Board of Health, Board of Commissioners and Gwinn School board. Senator Stabenow's office has provided support for this project and I am sure will continue to do so."

School-based health centers play a major role in providing basic health services for students who do not have access to medical care. Typically, a school-based clinic provides a combination of primary care, mental health care, substance abuse counseling, case management, dental health, nutrition education, health education and health promotion activities.

The Health Resources and Services Administration, an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, oversees the School-Based Health Center Capital Program.