Clinton County Health Department

Growing evidence shows that our ZIP code has a greater impact on our health than our genetic code. The neighborhoods in which people live—where family members play, study, work, and worship—affect health in multiple and complex ways.

Good health outcomes are more prevalent in neighborhoods where people have easy access to nutritious, affordable food; safe and walkable streets; and active playgrounds and public spaces. Living in neighborhoods without these essentials, residents are more likely to be burdened with high rates of obesity, diabetes, or other chronic illnesses. To tackle some of the underlying problems that have affected the health of communities, NYHealth launched the Healthy Neighborhoods Fund initiative to help New York State communities become healthier and more active places. Through the Healthy Neighborhoods Fund, in 2015, NYHealth invested $2 million over two years to support six communities across the State in their efforts to increase access to healthy, affordable food; improve access to safe places where residents can exercise and be active; and connect children and adults to programs that support healthy behaviors. NYHealth awarded Clinton County Health Department (CCHD) a grant to participate in this initiative in 2015.

CCHD worked in the city of Plattsburgh and the 14 towns and associated villages located within the county to implement Complete Streets policies; certify local food retailers as healthy food vendors; redesign and promote 3 parks, playgrounds, or other open spaces to support the increase of physical activity for adults and children; advance the development of a 13-mile walking trail in Plattsburgh; create new bus routes to connect residents living in food deserts to supermarkets; and work with schools and food pantries to improve the quality and nutritional value of food served at these locations.

In 2017, NYHealth is continuing its commitment to the Healthy Neighborhoods Fund, investing an additional $2.5 million over the next three years in support of these communities. NYHealth awarded CCHD a second grant in 2017 to continue these efforts.

Learn more about Clinton County and efforts to improve the health of residents.

See a full list of the Healthy Neighborhoods Fund grantees.