Partnership for Good Health

We are certainly excited for this new opportunity!

?? A big congratulations to Samir! Early summer, he successfully completed the certification program at Cleveland State University and is now officially a Certified Community Health Worker! ?? We’re thrilled to have him as part of the PGH team, making a difference in our community every day!

PGH serves the Sudanese community in Cuyahoga County. Dates are a favorite snack and ingredient in many dishes! ?? There are many different varieties of dates available in Sudan but the dry, white dates seem to be very popular due to its "not too sweet" flavor. Dates are often shared as a symbol of hospitality, especially during Ramadan, when they’re the first food eaten to break the fast. You might find a plate of dates on the table available day and night just in case visitors arrive. Despite their high sugar content, the amount of fiber in dates makes them a low Glycemic Index food. They are also packed with antioxidants, iron, potassium, and more! Rich in nutrients and natural sweetness, dates are used in everything from festive desserts to everyday meals, representing warmth, community, and nourishment.

Mental health cannot be understood without considering cultural context. ?? What’s seen as 'normal' in one culture may be a sign of mental illness in another. In many non-Western cultures, psychological distress often shows up as physical symptoms—a concept called somatization. While Western medicine tends to separate mental and physical health, many cultures take a holistic approach, viewing them as inseparable. At PGH, we strive to bridge cultural gaps and ensure everyone receives the care they need, both mentally and physically. ??

PGH CHWs are making a big impact! Over the last 12 months, our dedicated Community Health Workers have picked up 1,077 medications for clients, ensuring they stay on track with their health. ???? We’re proud of the difference they’re making every day!

PGH serves the Congolese community in Cuyahoga County. Pumpkin leaves are often used in cooking! ?? Bishusha is a dish traditionally made with pumpkin greens, and the leaves are often boiled to remove their thorny outer layer. Pumpkin plants are drought-resistant, affordable, and easy to grow. They are known to be high in antioxidants, and are particularly sought after by pregnant women and nursing mothers. They contain protein, vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus! So this fall, think about cooking those pumpkin leaves from your garden!

?? Lead poisoning disproportionately impacts refugee and newcomer children resettled in the United States than the general US population and contributes to permanent health and neurodevelopmental problems. A report in 2023 showed that the prevalence of elevated blood lead levels, in refugee children is double that of children born in the United States The CDC therefore recommends routine screening of refugee children aged 6 months to 16 years upon arrival in the United States, and retesting those aged 6 months-<6 years between 3 and 6 months post-arrival. When looking at Cleveland lead data for 2022-2023, reports show that about 12–13 percent of all children under age 6 have elevated lead levels in their blood. Some neighborhoods have rates as high as 25 percent. However, when looking at PGH clients this year, 42% of children under age 6 have elevated lead. For many of these children, they were tested because their CHW educated the parents on Well Child Checks and the importance of these appointments. ??

?? In August, we celebrated Suraia’s 1 year work anniversary! ?? Suraia has been assisting communities speaking Dari and Pashto by helping them access healthcare. We are so grateful to have her on the PGH team! ??

Did you know? ?? People with limited English proficiency are more likely to lose Medicaid coverage during the renewal process due to language barriers and ineffective communication. PGH CHWs help clients access Medicaid support services by familiarizing them with the Cuyahoga County Welcome Center, which opened this year! The Cuyahoga County Welcome Center is a multi-service center serving residents who are immigrants, refugees, and those with limited English proficiency to provide consistent and streamlined access to human and social services in Cuyahoga County, including: language services, public benefits, education, jobs and workforce support, housing, legal, and other resources necessary to acclimate to our community. Location: 4261 Fulton Parkway Cleveland, OH 44144 Hours: Tuesday – Thursday 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

PGH serves the Afghanistan community in Cuyahoga County. A typical snack may include dried black mulberries! ?? Black mulberries originate from western Asia including Afghanistan and has been cultivated since ancient times. They contain protein, fiber, vitamin C, iron, potassium, vitamin E. Have you tried it? ??