The Delaware Rural Health Coalition, formerly the Sussex County Healthcare Coalition, recently announced the selection and enrollment of its newest cohort of Community Health Worker trainees. The cohort represents a new group of individuals committed to strengthening the public health workforce and expanding community connections to trusted health resources across Kent and Sussex counties. Funding for this cohort is provided by the Longwood Foundation.

Through the CHW training program, participants receive comprehensive training, resulting in a state certificate, designed to prepare them to serve as effective supporters and liaisons among individuals, families, healthcare providers and community resources. CHWs play an important role in helping community members navigate healthcare and social service systems, access resources, understand health information and overcome barriers to care.

“Community health workers are essential to building healthier, more connected communities,” said Carrie Hart, a senior consultant and lead for RHC workforce initiatives. “We are excited to welcome this new cohort and support their development as they prepare to make an indelible contribution to Southern Delaware.”

The selected participants will complete the program’s required core, Health Literacy and Adult Mental Health First Aid training and, as applicable, begin a state-approved apprenticeship program or be connected to employment opportunities to gain hands-on experience.

The CHW Training Program for Southern Delaware is part of the coalition’s broader commitment to strengthening Delaware’s rural and community-based healthcare workforce. By investing in CHW training and career pathways, RHC is building a stronger, more connected workforce that can better meet the health and well-being needs of rural Delaware communities.

For more information about the Delaware Rural Health Coalition, go to sussexcoalition.org.