York-based Family First Health (FFH) has been awarded a $1 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).
According to a release, the funding is to enhance access to comprehensive primary care for individuals reentering the community from incarceration.
“At Family First Health, we are dedicated to providing care that meets the evolving needs of our community,” Jenny Englerth, president and CEO of Family First Health, said in a statement. “This funding enables us to better support individuals reentering society by addressing their health needs early, paving the way for healthier, more stable lives. Together with York County, we are creating a stronger system of care that promotes positive outcomes for all residents.”
FFH is the lone health center in Pennsylvania selected for this HRSA funding and one of only 54 centers nationwide. It is partnering with the York County Reentry Coalition to deliver services to incarcerated individuals nearing release. Designed to bridge gaps in care, the collaboration seeks to ensure a transition to community-based services and reduce the risk of health crises during reentry.
“York County is a community that comes together through collaboration and innovation to solve some of our most pressing issues,” said York County Commissioner President Julie Wheeler. “This innovative partnership with Family First Health is the first of its kind in Pennsylvania. Together, we are leading the way in addressing both the physical and behavioral healthcare needs of those who leave incarceration and reenter our community, creating a healthier York County.”
Per the release, formerly incarcerated individuals face disproportionately high rates of chronic conditions, mental health challenges, and substance use disorders. Nationwide, they are 10 times more likely to die from opioid overdose compared to the general population. More than 60 individuals are on the waitlist for recovery specialist services, making the need for comprehensive, coordinated care critical.
“York County is a community that comes together through collaboration and innovation to solve some of our most pressing issues,” said York County Commissioner President Julie Wheeler. “This innovative partnership with Family First Health is the first of its kind in Pennsylvania. Together, we are leading the way in addressing both the physical and behavioral healthcare needs of those who leave incarceration and reenter our community, creating a healthier York County.”
Per the release, formerly incarcerated individuals face disproportionately high rates of chronic conditions, mental health challenges, and substance use disorders. Nationwide, they are 10 times more likely to die from opioid overdose compared to the general population. More than 60 individuals are on the waitlist for recovery specialist services, making the need for comprehensive, coordinated care critical.
“Providing healthcare during the transition from incarceration is an essential part of ensuring individuals have the tools they need to succeed,” said Chawna Griffith-Myers, executive director of the York County Reentry Coalition. “This partnership will help address barriers to health and empower individuals to rebuild their lives.”
FFH will also deliver case management services and collaborate with community partners to address social determinants of health, including housing instability, food insecurity, financial strain, transportation barriers, and intimate partner violence.
Initiated in January 2025, the program prioritizes mental health and substance use treatment, including medication-assisted treatment, alongside primary care services. FFH aims to reduce recidivism, improve health outcomes, and strengthen the broader community.
“This funding supports Family First Health’s mission to advance equitable healthcare for all,” Englerth said. “By focusing on partnerships and practical solutions, we’re creating a model for reentry care that benefits both individuals and the community.”
FFH is a non-profit, federally qualified health center providing primary health, dental care, and social services at its sites on South George Street in York, Columbia, Gettysburg, Hanover, Hannah Penn K-8 School, Lebanon, Lewisberry, and William Penn Senior High School. FFH offers a reduced fee program for the uninsured and accepts most health insurances.