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PHW Voices

Partners in Health and Wholeness Announces Photography Contest

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and we want to hear what you have to say. The theme of this year’s PHW Faith and Health Summit is, “Making Connections: We’re Worth it!” in order to honor the image of God in each of us, to celebrate the good work that is being […]

Partners in Health and Wholeness Announces Photography Contest

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and we want to hear what you have to say. The theme of this year’s PHW Faith and Health Summit is, “Making Connections: We’re Worth it!” in order to honor the image of God in each of us, to celebrate the good work that is being […]

Thankful and Ever Vigilant When it Comes to Health Care

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We find ourselves in a better place than we might have been when it comes to health care policy. Remaining ever vigilant and recognizing that there is still much work to be done, today should be marked by gratitude that efforts to take health care from millions have, in this moment, failed. While Sen. John […]

Thankful and Ever Vigilant When it Comes to Health Care

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We find ourselves in a better place than we might have been when it comes to health care policy. Remaining ever vigilant and recognizing that there is still much work to be done, today should be marked by gratitude that efforts to take health care from millions have, in this moment, failed. While Sen. John […]

What the Senate’s Motion to Proceed Vote Means for Health Care

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The U.S. Senate’s vote this afternoon moves the debate forward to potentially repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. What that will look like is anybody’s guess. Senators Burr and Tillis both voted to proceed, but it is unclear what they will be proceeding to. Every proposal to come forward this summer would leave tens […]

What the Senate’s Motion to Proceed Vote Means for Health Care

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The U.S. Senate’s vote this afternoon moves the debate forward to potentially repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. What that will look like is anybody’s guess. Senators Burr and Tillis both voted to proceed, but it is unclear what they will be proceeding to. Every proposal to come forward this summer would leave tens […]

July 25 Update — Senate Health Care Vote Appears Likely Today

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

It appears that the U.S. Senate will vote today on some sort of health care action. What they’ll be voting on, however, is unclear even to some of them. This appears to be a race so that the Senate can say that they got something done. Please call Senator Tillis and Senator Burr today. Ask […]

July 25 Update — Senate Health Care Vote Appears Likely Today

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

It appears that the U.S. Senate will vote today on some sort of health care action. What they’ll be voting on, however, is unclear even to some of them. This appears to be a race so that the Senate can say that they got something done. Please call Senator Tillis and Senator Burr today. Ask […]

Wood Pellet Plant Would Be Environmental Injustice

By Michelle Peedin, Program Coordinator, Partners in Health and Wholeness

More than 10,000 individuals and 50 organizations have signed a petition asking Governor Cooper to revoke the world’s largest wood pellet manufacturer’s flawed air quality permit in Richmond County. At a Raleigh press conference on July 18, speakers represented prominent NC organizations such as Dogwood Alliance, Concerned Citizens of Richmond County, and Clean Air Carolina. […]

Wood Pellet Plant Would Be Environmental Injustice

· by Michelle Peedin, Program Coordinator, Partners in Health and Wholeness

More than 10,000 individuals and 50 organizations have signed a petition asking Governor Cooper to revoke the world’s largest wood pellet manufacturer’s flawed air quality permit in Richmond County. At a Raleigh press conference on July 18, speakers represented prominent NC organizations such as Dogwood Alliance, Concerned Citizens of Richmond County, and Clean Air Carolina. […]

Senate May Still Vote on Health Care; Please Keep Calling

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

No one seems completely clear on whether the Senate will vote next week on health care or what they will vote on if they do. That might be deliberate in part — an effort to reduce the pressure on their members who will be home this weekend. Or it could be because the Senate leadership […]

Senate May Still Vote on Health Care; Please Keep Calling

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

No one seems completely clear on whether the Senate will vote next week on health care or what they will vote on if they do. That might be deliberate in part — an effort to reduce the pressure on their members who will be home this weekend. Or it could be because the Senate leadership […]

Revised Health Care Bill, Same Devastating Effects

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Yesterday, the Senate unveiled a revised version of the Better Care Reconciliation Act. According to a report from our friends at the North Carolina Justice Center the changes, and their effects, include: Allowing consumers to use health savings accounts to pay insurance premiums, which would disproportionately benefit higher-income earners, doing little to make insurance affordable […]

Revised Health Care Bill, Same Devastating Effects

· by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Yesterday, the Senate unveiled a revised version of the Better Care Reconciliation Act. According to a report from our friends at the North Carolina Justice Center the changes, and their effects, include: Allowing consumers to use health savings accounts to pay insurance premiums, which would disproportionately benefit higher-income earners, doing little to make insurance affordable […]

Rising Up with Richmond County

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

“Biomass” may sound like a clean idea, but it actually means cutting down and turning trees into fuel pellets to be burned for energy — creating more carbon pollution than coal, accelerating global warming, and driving climate chaos. North Carolina’s former governor opened the floodgates to the wood pellet export industry. It tears down the […]

Rising Up with Richmond County

· by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

“Biomass” may sound like a clean idea, but it actually means cutting down and turning trees into fuel pellets to be burned for energy — creating more carbon pollution than coal, accelerating global warming, and driving climate chaos. North Carolina’s former governor opened the floodgates to the wood pellet export industry. It tears down the […]

Doomed Veto Spotlights Budget Flaws

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Presented with a new state budget that, whatever its occasional virtues, is mainly about easing tax burdens on the well-off while grinding opponents of legislative Republicans into the dirt, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper had little choice but to wield his veto stamp. Those Republicans who crafted the budget tried to taunt Cooper into signing it, […]

Doomed Veto Spotlights Budget Flaws

· by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

Presented with a new state budget that, whatever its occasional virtues, is mainly about easing tax burdens on the well-off while grinding opponents of legislative Republicans into the dirt, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper had little choice but to wield his veto stamp. Those Republicans who crafted the budget tried to taunt Cooper into signing it, […]

With Prescription Medication, Verify Before You Buy

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Would you be Surprised to know 97 percent of online pharmacies are illegitimate? The North Carolina Council of Churches has joined with Secretary of State Elaine Marshall and the Secretary of State’s Advisory Council to Combat Counterfeit Medication to launch an important new consumer safety campaign, Verify Before You Buy. The campaign works to protect […]

With Prescription Medication, Verify Before You Buy

· by Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Would you be Surprised to know 97 percent of online pharmacies are illegitimate? The North Carolina Council of Churches has joined with Secretary of State Elaine Marshall and the Secretary of State’s Advisory Council to Combat Counterfeit Medication to launch an important new consumer safety campaign, Verify Before You Buy. The campaign works to protect […]

Health Care CBO Score Proves Potential Harm

By Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Late yesterday afternoon the Congressional Budget Office released their score of the Senate’s proposed health care plan and the numbers are extremely troubling. As our friends at the North Carolina Justice Center report the so-called “Better Care Reconciliation Act of 2017” would: Take health coverage away from 22 million Americans, especially low-income older adults. Slash […]

Health Care CBO Score Proves Potential Harm

· by Andrew Hudgins, Program Associate for Operations

Late yesterday afternoon the Congressional Budget Office released their score of the Senate’s proposed health care plan and the numbers are extremely troubling. As our friends at the North Carolina Justice Center report the so-called “Better Care Reconciliation Act of 2017” would: Take health coverage away from 22 million Americans, especially low-income older adults. Slash […]

Senate Health Care Plan Released: Would Make the Most Vulnerable More So

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Members of the United States Senate have released their proposed health care plan, all 142 pages of the “Better Care Reconciliation Act of 2017” developed in secrecy, with a score from the Congressional Budget Office expected early next week. Meanwhile, we know it will reduce Medicaid significantly more than the House bill while cutting taxes […]

Senate Health Care Plan Released: Would Make the Most Vulnerable More So

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Members of the United States Senate have released their proposed health care plan, all 142 pages of the “Better Care Reconciliation Act of 2017” developed in secrecy, with a score from the Congressional Budget Office expected early next week. Meanwhile, we know it will reduce Medicaid significantly more than the House bill while cutting taxes […]

New Budget with Old Agenda Falls Short

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

By now the strategy is familiar – the strategy used by the N.C. General Assembly’s Republican chiefs to try to make a fundamentally flawed state budget appear, well, not that bad. Or at least tolerable. Or better than it could have been and perhaps even worth supporting. Here’s how it works: The Senate proposes a […]

New Budget with Old Agenda Falls Short

· by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

By now the strategy is familiar – the strategy used by the N.C. General Assembly’s Republican chiefs to try to make a fundamentally flawed state budget appear, well, not that bad. Or at least tolerable. Or better than it could have been and perhaps even worth supporting. Here’s how it works: The Senate proposes a […]

Senate Health Care Plan — Let’s Keep Calling

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

As the Senate continues its secret deliberations on a health care plan that will effect all Americans, the potential impact on one of the most vulnerable groups in our society – children – continues to unfold. Indications are that, in their closed-door meetings, the Senators have taken a similar approach to the House of Representatives. […]

Senate Health Care Plan — Let’s Keep Calling

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

As the Senate continues its secret deliberations on a health care plan that will effect all Americans, the potential impact on one of the most vulnerable groups in our society – children – continues to unfold. Indications are that, in their closed-door meetings, the Senators have taken a similar approach to the House of Representatives. […]

Thursday, June 15 — NC Health Care Call-in Day

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council’s commitment to health care as a basic justice issue dates back decades. Significant progress toward health care for all was made with the Affordable Care Act, progress toward a beloved community where everyone has enough. Unfortunately, work continues in the U.S. Senate to repeal the ACA with an alternative plan being developed almost entirely […]

Thursday, June 15 — NC Health Care Call-in Day

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council’s commitment to health care as a basic justice issue dates back decades. Significant progress toward health care for all was made with the Affordable Care Act, progress toward a beloved community where everyone has enough. Unfortunately, work continues in the U.S. Senate to repeal the ACA with an alternative plan being developed almost entirely […]

Now what? Staying Engaged and Grow the Interfaith Climate Movement

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

We were already living in a time of profound consequence. President Trump’s decision to pull the U.S. out of the Paris Climate Agreement means that while the needs of our endangered climate are increasing, the response to global warming is diminishing at the national level. Our actions now, as climate conscious people of faith, matter more than ever. There […]

Now what? Staying Engaged and Grow the Interfaith Climate Movement

· by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

We were already living in a time of profound consequence. President Trump’s decision to pull the U.S. out of the Paris Climate Agreement means that while the needs of our endangered climate are increasing, the response to global warming is diminishing at the national level. Our actions now, as climate conscious people of faith, matter more than ever. There […]

Gun Bill Advances in GA; National Gun Violence Awareness Day is June 2

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Consider the shame of the North Carolina General Assembly working to rush through a bill that weakens gun laws as National Gun Violence Awareness Day approaches. It is right up there with a billboard vilifying Muslims displayed during Ramadan. Both are disturbing enough on their own, but the timing somehow makes them feel even worse. […]

Gun Bill Advances in GA; National Gun Violence Awareness Day is June 2

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Consider the shame of the North Carolina General Assembly working to rush through a bill that weakens gun laws as National Gun Violence Awareness Day approaches. It is right up there with a billboard vilifying Muslims displayed during Ramadan. Both are disturbing enough on their own, but the timing somehow makes them feel even worse. […]

Heal the Sick

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For more than two decades, the NC Council of Churches has called for access to health care for all. The score from the Congressional Budget Office makes it undeniably clear that the American Health Care Act takes us farther from that goal. It would put the lives of many at risk and negatively impact the […]

Heal the Sick

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

For more than two decades, the NC Council of Churches has called for access to health care for all. The score from the Congressional Budget Office makes it undeniably clear that the American Health Care Act takes us farther from that goal. It would put the lives of many at risk and negatively impact the […]

2018 Budget Proposal is the Antithesis of our Call

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Plenty of analysis is already happening around the 2018 budget proposal out of the White House. The Washington Post provides two helpful graphics here and here. More is being written than most of us can fully absorb, but  Politico offers a key observation: On close reading, the budget is less a credible attempt to eliminate, […]

2018 Budget Proposal is the Antithesis of our Call

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Plenty of analysis is already happening around the 2018 budget proposal out of the White House. The Washington Post provides two helpful graphics here and here. More is being written than most of us can fully absorb, but  Politico offers a key observation: On close reading, the budget is less a credible attempt to eliminate, […]

Budget’s Big Picture: A Crumbling Core

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

So, the question as always comes down to one of vision. The elected chieftains who decide how much money North Carolina’s state government will spend, what it will be spent on and how it will be raised must decide not only which programs and services will thrive and which will dwindle. They must decide to […]

Budget’s Big Picture: A Crumbling Core

· by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

So, the question as always comes down to one of vision. The elected chieftains who decide how much money North Carolina’s state government will spend, what it will be spent on and how it will be raised must decide not only which programs and services will thrive and which will dwindle. They must decide to […]

Apply for PHW Collaborative by May 31 to be Eligible for June Mini-Grant

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

The next Partners in Health and Wholeness Mini-grant Cycle will begin June 5. Interested congregations must apply to join the PHW Collaborative (previously PHW Certification) by May 31 to be eligible. Priority is given to projects that address one of PHW’s four cornerstones: healthy eating, physical activity, tobacco prevention and cessation, and mental health. In […]

Apply for PHW Collaborative by May 31 to be Eligible for June Mini-Grant

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

The next Partners in Health and Wholeness Mini-grant Cycle will begin June 5. Interested congregations must apply to join the PHW Collaborative (previously PHW Certification) by May 31 to be eligible. Priority is given to projects that address one of PHW’s four cornerstones: healthy eating, physical activity, tobacco prevention and cessation, and mental health. In […]

Raleigh Report — May 10, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [For more information on bills, including committee referrals and re-referrals, texts of bills, procedural histories, and recorded votes, go to the General Assembly website www.ncleg.net.] Newly Introduced Bills EDUCATION Three companion bills would impact food served in schools. H 891, Free Breakfast and Lunch in K-12 Public Schools, would […]

Raleigh Report — May 10, 2017

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [For more information on bills, including committee referrals and re-referrals, texts of bills, procedural histories, and recorded votes, go to the General Assembly website www.ncleg.net.] Newly Introduced Bills EDUCATION Three companion bills would impact food served in schools. H 891, Free Breakfast and Lunch in K-12 Public Schools, would […]

House Passage of AHCA — We are Better Than This

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The passage of the American Health Care Act by the House of Representatives reflects a political choice on a life-or-death matter. If House members truly believed that this was the best possible plan, they could have held hearings and waited for a new score from the Congressional Budget Office. Supporters would not have been blaming […]

House Passage of AHCA — We are Better Than This

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The passage of the American Health Care Act by the House of Representatives reflects a political choice on a life-or-death matter. If House members truly believed that this was the best possible plan, they could have held hearings and waited for a new score from the Congressional Budget Office. Supporters would not have been blaming […]

Raleigh Report — April 26, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [The deadlines for the introduction of most new bills have now passed, and we are in Crossover Week. By the end of the week, most non-money bills (i.e., not taxes, fees, or appropriations) must have passed one house in order to remain alive for this session. There are exceptions, […]

Raleigh Report — April 26, 2017

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [The deadlines for the introduction of most new bills have now passed, and we are in Crossover Week. By the end of the week, most non-money bills (i.e., not taxes, fees, or appropriations) must have passed one house in order to remain alive for this session. There are exceptions, […]

Efforts to Cut Health Care Continue in Congress

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The public is opposed to efforts to replace the Affordable Care Act, but some members of the U.S. House of Representatives seem determined to forge ahead anyway. The latest version of a replacement plan for the ACA could be voted on as early as this Wednesday. As with the American Health Care Act, this would […]

Efforts to Cut Health Care Continue in Congress

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The public is opposed to efforts to replace the Affordable Care Act, but some members of the U.S. House of Representatives seem determined to forge ahead anyway. The latest version of a replacement plan for the ACA could be voted on as early as this Wednesday. As with the American Health Care Act, this would […]

Raleigh Report — April 21, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [For the latest committee referrals and re-referrals, go to the General Assembly website www.ncleg.net. There you can also find the texts of bills, procedural histories, and recorded votes.] Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES H 727, Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights, would add a lengthy and detailed amendment to the […]

Raleigh Report — April 21, 2017

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director [For the latest committee referrals and re-referrals, go to the General Assembly website www.ncleg.net. There you can also find the texts of bills, procedural histories, and recorded votes.] Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES H 727, Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights, would add a lengthy and detailed amendment to the […]

Congress is on Recess but You Can Still Take Action

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Congressional leaders are still in their home states for their spring recess, but your voices are still important. Please attend town halls held by our elected leaders, and please request town halls from those who don’t have them planned. In addition, some health advocacy organizations at the national level are urging grassroots advocates to make […]

Congress is on Recess but You Can Still Take Action

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Congressional leaders are still in their home states for their spring recess, but your voices are still important. Please attend town halls held by our elected leaders, and please request town halls from those who don’t have them planned. In addition, some health advocacy organizations at the national level are urging grassroots advocates to make […]

Raleigh Report — April 17, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES H 540, Teachers & State Employees Pay Raise, would give annual raises of $2,400 to teachers and other state employees making less than $100,000/year. The bill would appropriate more than $700 million for the first year of these raises. Introduced by Reps. Malone […]

Raleigh Report — April 17, 2017

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills BUDGET AND TAXES H 540, Teachers & State Employees Pay Raise, would give annual raises of $2,400 to teachers and other state employees making less than $100,000/year. The bill would appropriate more than $700 million for the first year of these raises. Introduced by Reps. Malone […]

New Push for Broader Medicaid, Better Health

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina’s failure under Republican leadership to improve low-income residents’ access to health care via the Medicaid program has been like a persistent, throbbing pain in the state’s civic and economic life. The pain can be literal, when people must do without the kinds of care and treatment that everyone recognizes as meeting basic standards […]

New Push for Broader Medicaid, Better Health

· by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

North Carolina’s failure under Republican leadership to improve low-income residents’ access to health care via the Medicaid program has been like a persistent, throbbing pain in the state’s civic and economic life. The pain can be literal, when people must do without the kinds of care and treatment that everyone recognizes as meeting basic standards […]

Raleigh Report — April 10, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Bills are being introduced at a rapid pace as the Senate’s deadline for new bills has passed and the House’s deadline on non-money approaches. This Raleigh Report and another one later in the week will try to catch up with the flood of bills. Newly Introduced Bills CHILDREN AND […]

Raleigh Report — April 10, 2017

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Bills are being introduced at a rapid pace as the Senate’s deadline for new bills has passed and the House’s deadline on non-money approaches. This Raleigh Report and another one later in the week will try to catch up with the flood of bills. Newly Introduced Bills CHILDREN AND […]

Work for Just and Equitable Health Care is Not Finished

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Every state legislator should be required to listen to the stories shared at a press conference organized this week by North Carolina advocates for health care. Anyone opposed to Medicaid expansion might learn something. Dr. Erica Pettigrew, medical director of the Orange County Health Department, shared four different cases from a single day’s work where […]

Work for Just and Equitable Health Care is Not Finished

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Every state legislator should be required to listen to the stories shared at a press conference organized this week by North Carolina advocates for health care. Anyone opposed to Medicaid expansion might learn something. Dr. Erica Pettigrew, medical director of the Orange County Health Department, shared four different cases from a single day’s work where […]

Speak Out Against Anti-Climate Executive Order

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

This week, Donald Trump issued an executive order to turn back the clock on the climate progress we have made over the past decade. In addition to directing the EPA to dismantle the Clean Power Plan, this sweeping executive order also attempts to undo methane standards for oil and gas operations, stop federal agencies from considering […]

Speak Out Against Anti-Climate Executive Order

· by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

This week, Donald Trump issued an executive order to turn back the clock on the climate progress we have made over the past decade. In addition to directing the EPA to dismantle the Clean Power Plan, this sweeping executive order also attempts to undo methane standards for oil and gas operations, stop federal agencies from considering […]

UPDATE: Trumpcare Just Got Worse — Call Before Today’s Vote

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Thank you for every call, email, and letter to Congressional leaders that led to today’s decision to pull the American Health Care Act without a vote. Those committed to a compassionate and just vision for our society have had many moments of despair in recent months. Today was a reminder that persistence matters. There is […]

UPDATE: Trumpcare Just Got Worse — Call Before Today’s Vote

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Thank you for every call, email, and letter to Congressional leaders that led to today’s decision to pull the American Health Care Act without a vote. Those committed to a compassionate and just vision for our society have had many moments of despair in recent months. Today was a reminder that persistence matters. There is […]

If a Budget is a Moral Document, Then What Does this One Preach?

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The budget blueprint for 2018 released by President Trump on Thursday cuts a wide swath through programs that serve women, people of color, those of low income (for poor women of color, that would mean the same old same old), the arts, the environment, education, job creation, and science.  Couple it with the proposed health […]

If a Budget is a Moral Document, Then What Does this One Preach?

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The budget blueprint for 2018 released by President Trump on Thursday cuts a wide swath through programs that serve women, people of color, those of low income (for poor women of color, that would mean the same old same old), the arts, the environment, education, job creation, and science.  Couple it with the proposed health […]

Raleigh Report — March 13, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills CRIMINAL AND JUVENILE JUSTICE H 233, Ban the Box, would govern how state and local governments could use criminal histories in making hiring decision. (“Ban the box” refers to the question on an application form about whether the applicant has ever been convicted of a crime, […]

Raleigh Report — March 13, 2017

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills CRIMINAL AND JUVENILE JUSTICE H 233, Ban the Box, would govern how state and local governments could use criminal histories in making hiring decision. (“Ban the box” refers to the question on an application form about whether the applicant has ever been convicted of a crime, […]

Who Would Choose to be Poor or Sick?

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Around the release of the alt-health plan currently making its way through Congress, several elected leaders have gone where elected leaders sometimes go – blaming the poor for being poor. Perhaps it’s to assuage their consciences or justify their current proposal which would make it more expensive for those with the fewest resources and limit […]

Who Would Choose to be Poor or Sick?

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Around the release of the alt-health plan currently making its way through Congress, several elected leaders have gone where elected leaders sometimes go – blaming the poor for being poor. Perhaps it’s to assuage their consciences or justify their current proposal which would make it more expensive for those with the fewest resources and limit […]

Taking Away Health Care

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Despite evidence that the Affordable Care Act is more popular and more needed than ever, some Republicans in Congress have proceeded with partisan plans to repeal Obamacare while dismantling Medicaid as we know it. Among other things, our friends at Save My Care explain that the plan put forward on Monday would: End ACA tax […]

Taking Away Health Care

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Despite evidence that the Affordable Care Act is more popular and more needed than ever, some Republicans in Congress have proceeded with partisan plans to repeal Obamacare while dismantling Medicaid as we know it. Among other things, our friends at Save My Care explain that the plan put forward on Monday would: End ACA tax […]

2017 Legislative Seminar: Advocate in NC as well as DC

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The political situation at the national level has occupied the time and attention of many faithful progressives. Each day has brought with it more reasons to be concerned for our most vulnerable sisters and brothers as well as for our democratic system of government. Right now, there isn’t much reason to believe things will improve. […]

2017 Legislative Seminar: Advocate in NC as well as DC

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The political situation at the national level has occupied the time and attention of many faithful progressives. Each day has brought with it more reasons to be concerned for our most vulnerable sisters and brothers as well as for our democratic system of government. Right now, there isn’t much reason to believe things will improve. […]

Introducing the Partners in Health and Wholeness Collaborative

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

We are pleased to introduce the PHW Collaborative. Mostly, it is a change in the name, so if your congregation has been a part of the Partners in Health and Wholeness Certification Program, you actually already know a lot about the PHW Collaborative. At the heart of it, the program is the same. But words are […]

Introducing the Partners in Health and Wholeness Collaborative

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

We are pleased to introduce the PHW Collaborative. Mostly, it is a change in the name, so if your congregation has been a part of the Partners in Health and Wholeness Certification Program, you actually already know a lot about the PHW Collaborative. At the heart of it, the program is the same. But words are […]

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PHW Launches Collaborative; Certify for 2017

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

We are pleased to introduce the PHW Collaborative. Mostly, it is a change in the name, so if your congregation has been a part of the Partners in Health and Wholeness Certification Program, you actually already know about the PHW Collaborative. At the heart of it, the program is the same. But words are important. The […]

PHW Launches Collaborative; Certify for 2017

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

We are pleased to introduce the PHW Collaborative. Mostly, it is a change in the name, so if your congregation has been a part of the Partners in Health and Wholeness Certification Program, you actually already know about the PHW Collaborative. At the heart of it, the program is the same. But words are important. The […]

Raleigh Report — February 28, 2017

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills ENVIRONMENTAL CARE H 171, Change Exclusion for Solar Energy Systems. Current law provides an 80% exclusion from property taxation for the value of a solar electric system, defined as “all equipment used directly and exclusively for the conversion of solar energy to electricity.” H 171 would […]

Raleigh Report — February 28, 2017

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director Newly Introduced Bills ENVIRONMENTAL CARE H 171, Change Exclusion for Solar Energy Systems. Current law provides an 80% exclusion from property taxation for the value of a solar electric system, defined as “all equipment used directly and exclusively for the conversion of solar energy to electricity.” H 171 would […]

PHW is Expanding

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Partners in Health and Wholeness is hiring for two new regional coordinators, one to serve in the Charlotte area and the other in the Wilmington area. Both positions are open until filled, but first consideration will be given to applications received by March 9. PHW is an initiative of the Council working with faith communities […]

PHW is Expanding

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Partners in Health and Wholeness is hiring for two new regional coordinators, one to serve in the Charlotte area and the other in the Wilmington area. Both positions are open until filled, but first consideration will be given to applications received by March 9. PHW is an initiative of the Council working with faith communities […]

Welcome Andrew and Michelle!

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council has added two new staffers in recent months. Andrew Hudgins is our Program Associate for Operations, and Michelle Peedin is our Program Associate for North Carolina Interfaith Power and Light and for Partners in Health and Wholeness. They introduce themselves in the video below:

Welcome Andrew and Michelle!

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council has added two new staffers in recent months. Andrew Hudgins is our Program Associate for Operations, and Michelle Peedin is our Program Associate for North Carolina Interfaith Power and Light and for Partners in Health and Wholeness. They introduce themselves in the video below:

Getting Back to Our Normal: Some Suggestions for the Long Haul

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our friend Rob Schofield over at Policy Watch wrote a column on Tuesday that was as vitally important in its truth-telling as it was hard to read for the future it forecasts. One of the crucial facts he offered — those of us opposed to the policies, personalities, and vicious rhetoric of the current administration […]

Getting Back to Our Normal: Some Suggestions for the Long Haul

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Our friend Rob Schofield over at Policy Watch wrote a column on Tuesday that was as vitally important in its truth-telling as it was hard to read for the future it forecasts. One of the crucial facts he offered — those of us opposed to the policies, personalities, and vicious rhetoric of the current administration […]

The ACA Remains in Place; 2017 Open Enrollment ends January 31

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Affordable Care Act is still in place for 2017, and as our friends at the NC Justice Center remind us, nothing has changed for this year. Plans, prices, deadlines, and requirements to have coverage are the same. The deadline for open enrollment is January 31. To get free, expert help enrolling, visit Keep NC […]

The ACA Remains in Place; 2017 Open Enrollment ends January 31

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Affordable Care Act is still in place for 2017, and as our friends at the NC Justice Center remind us, nothing has changed for this year. Plans, prices, deadlines, and requirements to have coverage are the same. The deadline for open enrollment is January 31. To get free, expert help enrolling, visit Keep NC […]

Let’s Keep Marching

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

At another time in my life, I would not have spent most of Saturday occupying my tiny square of personal space in the heart of Washington DC, literally shoulder to shoulder with a half million others. But there I was, pink hat and all. I chose to be there because my grandmother cleaned other people’s […]

Let’s Keep Marching

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

At another time in my life, I would not have spent most of Saturday occupying my tiny square of personal space in the heart of Washington DC, literally shoulder to shoulder with a half million others. But there I was, pink hat and all. I chose to be there because my grandmother cleaned other people’s […]

Medicaid Push: Cooper’s Strong Start

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For many of us, these are troubling times as Donald Trump ascends to the nation’s highest office. We can hope for the best but it’s hard not to anticipate the worst: valuable alliances trashed, environmental protections ravaged, civil rights eroded, neighbors pitted against neighbors as Trump’s own crude selfishness like a virus afflicts our civic […]

Medicaid Push: Cooper’s Strong Start

· by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

For many of us, these are troubling times as Donald Trump ascends to the nation’s highest office. We can hope for the best but it’s hard not to anticipate the worst: valuable alliances trashed, environmental protections ravaged, civil rights eroded, neighbors pitted against neighbors as Trump’s own crude selfishness like a virus afflicts our civic […]

Healthy Churches 2020 National Conference

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Pizazz. Laughter. Friends. Singing. These words describe the Healthy Churches 2020 National Conference. But, did you know that a faith and health national conference even exists? Healthy Churches 2020 held its third annual national conference in Charlotte, NC.  A Balm in Gilead, a non-profit based out of Virginia organizes this conference. They develop educational and […]

Healthy Churches 2020 National Conference

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Pizazz. Laughter. Friends. Singing. These words describe the Healthy Churches 2020 National Conference. But, did you know that a faith and health national conference even exists? Healthy Churches 2020 held its third annual national conference in Charlotte, NC.  A Balm in Gilead, a non-profit based out of Virginia organizes this conference. They develop educational and […]

Pope Francis Advocates for Breastfeeding in Worship

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

In the past Partners in Health and Wholeness had a program dedicated to helping worshipping communities promote breastfeeding and support breastfeeding mothers. This week, the most prominent religious leader in the world, the Pope, took it a step further. In a homily during a baptism service in the Sistine Chapel, Pope Francis encouraged mothers to feed their babies […]

Pope Francis Advocates for Breastfeeding in Worship

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

In the past Partners in Health and Wholeness had a program dedicated to helping worshipping communities promote breastfeeding and support breastfeeding mothers. This week, the most prominent religious leader in the world, the Pope, took it a step further. In a homily during a baptism service in the Sistine Chapel, Pope Francis encouraged mothers to feed their babies […]

Speak Out on Cabinet Nominees

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Groups at the state and national level continue to mobilize around concerns about President-Elect Donald Trump’s stated policy objectives and choices for cabinet posts. The NC NAACP, Interfaith Power & Light, MomsRising, Faith in Public Life, and the National Council of Churches are just some of the organizations calling on people of conscience to speak […]

Speak Out on Cabinet Nominees

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Groups at the state and national level continue to mobilize around concerns about President-Elect Donald Trump’s stated policy objectives and choices for cabinet posts. The NC NAACP, Interfaith Power & Light, MomsRising, Faith in Public Life, and the National Council of Churches are just some of the organizations calling on people of conscience to speak […]

Update: Save Our Health Care Rallies Statewide on January 15

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

On Friday, the House of Representatives voted to continue the process that could ultimately repeal the Affordable Care Act. Activists across the nation were already planning Day of Action events for Sunday focused on saving our health care, and several will take place in North Carolina. This is an opportunity to make your voice heard. […]

Update: Save Our Health Care Rallies Statewide on January 15

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

On Friday, the House of Representatives voted to continue the process that could ultimately repeal the Affordable Care Act. Activists across the nation were already planning Day of Action events for Sunday focused on saving our health care, and several will take place in North Carolina. This is an opportunity to make your voice heard. […]

PHW Mini-Grants Now Open

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

We are excited to announce that we are now accepting mini-grant applications. Congregations who were certified in 2016 (and have not already received a grant from the last cycle) are eligible to apply. We look forward to reading all the wonderful, meaningful, and creative health-related projects your congregations have planned. For great stories on what past grantees have […]

PHW Mini-Grants Now Open

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

We are excited to announce that we are now accepting mini-grant applications. Congregations who were certified in 2016 (and have not already received a grant from the last cycle) are eligible to apply. We look forward to reading all the wonderful, meaningful, and creative health-related projects your congregations have planned. For great stories on what past grantees have […]

Partners in Health and Wholeness Grant Cycle Opens January 6

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

PHW-certified congregations across North Carolina are eligible to apply for a mini-grant to assist in furthering their commitment to health and wholeness. Mini-grant application periods are open twice a year; the current cycle is from January 6 through February 6. To be eligible for this grant cycle, congregations must have been certified in the past […]

Partners in Health and Wholeness Grant Cycle Opens January 6

· by Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

PHW-certified congregations across North Carolina are eligible to apply for a mini-grant to assist in furthering their commitment to health and wholeness. Mini-grant application periods are open twice a year; the current cycle is from January 6 through February 6. To be eligible for this grant cycle, congregations must have been certified in the past […]

Two PHW Regional Coordinators Recognized

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Two of the Partners in Health and Wholeness program’s regional coordinators have been honored recently. Joy Williams has been named a 2017 Rural Health Fellow by the National Rural Health Association. She is one of 16 fellows  who will participate in a yearlong, intensive program to develop leaders who can articulate a clear and compelling […]

Two PHW Regional Coordinators Recognized

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Two of the Partners in Health and Wholeness program’s regional coordinators have been honored recently. Joy Williams has been named a 2017 Rural Health Fellow by the National Rural Health Association. She is one of 16 fellows  who will participate in a yearlong, intensive program to develop leaders who can articulate a clear and compelling […]

Job Opening: Program Associate for PHW and NCIPL

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council is hiring a full-time program associate to support Partners in Health and Wholeness and North Carolina Interfaith Power and Light. The full job description is posted below and at this link. Interviews are anticipated in January, and the position is open until filled. Hours: 32-40 hours per week Salary and benefits: Hiring range […]

Job Opening: Program Associate for PHW and NCIPL

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

The Council is hiring a full-time program associate to support Partners in Health and Wholeness and North Carolina Interfaith Power and Light. The full job description is posted below and at this link. Interviews are anticipated in January, and the position is open until filled. Hours: 32-40 hours per week Salary and benefits: Hiring range […]

The Rural Oasis: Conetoe Family Life Center

By Rev. Jessica Stokes, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Mental Health Advocacy

The amount of grassroots, efficient, and sustainable Kingdom work happening in North Carolina is astounding. People across our state are working together in various communities to promote health and wholeness. People care about health. People recognize that our lives and families depend on us caring about health. Communal work is happening all around us, to […]

The Rural Oasis: Conetoe Family Life Center

· by Rev. Jessica Stokes, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Mental Health Advocacy

The amount of grassroots, efficient, and sustainable Kingdom work happening in North Carolina is astounding. People across our state are working together in various communities to promote health and wholeness. People care about health. People recognize that our lives and families depend on us caring about health. Communal work is happening all around us, to […]

The Council Welcomes Your End-of-Year Gift

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Looking ahead to 2017, there is much more work for the Council to do than we ever imagined. Please join us. Your financial support helps us continue what began in 1935 out of the recognition that racial segregation was antithetical to Christ’s teachings. Since that time, the Council’s work has expanded to include issues ranging […]

The Council Welcomes Your End-of-Year Gift

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Looking ahead to 2017, there is much more work for the Council to do than we ever imagined. Please join us. Your financial support helps us continue what began in 1935 out of the recognition that racial segregation was antithetical to Christ’s teachings. Since that time, the Council’s work has expanded to include issues ranging […]

Support North Carolina’s Faithful Voice for Justice, Unity, and Peace

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We are living in unsettling times. Progress we once thought inviolable now feels threatened. One constant is the NC Council of Churches and our commitment to a more just, united, and peaceful society. Our faith calls us to love one another, protect the vulnerable, and work together toward a beloved community. We continue to be […]

Support North Carolina’s Faithful Voice for Justice, Unity, and Peace

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

We are living in unsettling times. Progress we once thought inviolable now feels threatened. One constant is the NC Council of Churches and our commitment to a more just, united, and peaceful society. Our faith calls us to love one another, protect the vulnerable, and work together toward a beloved community. We continue to be […]

Join in the Support of Belhaven’s Pungo Hospital

By Rev. Jessica Stokes, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Mental Health Advocacy

Community leaders continue to work endlessly to save the Pungo Hospital in Belhaven. Please join clergy and those concerned for justice this Wednesday, December 21, 10 a.m., at the Wake County Civil Court, Suite 1035, 316 Fayetteville Street in Raleigh (detailed directions below). The hoped-for outcome of this court hearing is to attain a temporary […]

Join in the Support of Belhaven’s Pungo Hospital

· by Rev. Jessica Stokes, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Mental Health Advocacy

Community leaders continue to work endlessly to save the Pungo Hospital in Belhaven. Please join clergy and those concerned for justice this Wednesday, December 21, 10 a.m., at the Wake County Civil Court, Suite 1035, 316 Fayetteville Street in Raleigh (detailed directions below). The hoped-for outcome of this court hearing is to attain a temporary […]

Community Contributes to Our Wholeness

By Rev. Jessica Stokes, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Mental Health Advocacy

Partners in Health and Wholeness ambitiously endeavors to work for and toward issues of mind, body, and spirit with faith communities. The words ‘health’ and ‘wholeness’ are truly huge words, landscaping innumerable concerns, issues, and conversations. Daunting, yes. Needed? Definitely. As daunting as the work around health seems in this state, I was reminded of […]

Community Contributes to Our Wholeness

· by Rev. Jessica Stokes, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Mental Health Advocacy

Partners in Health and Wholeness ambitiously endeavors to work for and toward issues of mind, body, and spirit with faith communities. The words ‘health’ and ‘wholeness’ are truly huge words, landscaping innumerable concerns, issues, and conversations. Daunting, yes. Needed? Definitely. As daunting as the work around health seems in this state, I was reminded of […]

NC Family Featured in Video on Need for Medicaid Expansion

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Nina Voli, Duke Divinity School Intern Although the Affordable Care Act expanded health care coverage to millions of Americans, the Supreme Court ruled that state enrollment in Medicaid expansion was optional. As a result of this decision, 19 states, including North Carolina, declined the funds allocated for expansion, and roughly three million adults nationwide were left in a […]

NC Family Featured in Video on Need for Medicaid Expansion

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By Nina Voli, Duke Divinity School Intern Although the Affordable Care Act expanded health care coverage to millions of Americans, the Supreme Court ruled that state enrollment in Medicaid expansion was optional. As a result of this decision, 19 states, including North Carolina, declined the funds allocated for expansion, and roughly three million adults nationwide were left in a […]

At Campaign Trail’s End, Voters Rule

By Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

As the 2016 campaign season grinds along the final stretch toward Election Day on Nov. 8 – and with thousands of North Carolinians already having cast their ballots – we may see a familiar paradox of politics once again displayed: Things had to get worse before they could get better. And brother, did they get […]

At Campaign Trail’s End, Voters Rule

· by Steve Ford, Former Volunteer Program Associate

As the 2016 campaign season grinds along the final stretch toward Election Day on Nov. 8 – and with thousands of North Carolinians already having cast their ballots – we may see a familiar paradox of politics once again displayed: Things had to get worse before they could get better. And brother, did they get […]

PHW Certification Deadline Extended to November 15

By Rev. Jessica Stokes, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Mental Health Advocacy

The Partners in Health and Wholeness program originally had an October 31 deadline for our 2016 certification applications. However, due to the severity of Hurricane Matthew, we are extending our health certification deadline to Tuesday, November 15. We hope that this extension offers churches more time and flexibility to participate in our program despite the […]

PHW Certification Deadline Extended to November 15

· by Rev. Jessica Stokes, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Mental Health Advocacy

The Partners in Health and Wholeness program originally had an October 31 deadline for our 2016 certification applications. However, due to the severity of Hurricane Matthew, we are extending our health certification deadline to Tuesday, November 15. We hope that this extension offers churches more time and flexibility to participate in our program despite the […]

2016 PHW Certifications Close on October 31 — Apply to be Considered for January Mini-Grants

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) offers an annual certification program to congregations across the state. Churches participating in PHW actively demonstrate their commitment to improving their health as well as the health of their community. By increasing physical activity, making healthier food and drink choices, eliminating the use of tobacco products and paying attention […]

2016 PHW Certifications Close on October 31 — Apply to be Considered for January Mini-Grants

· by Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

Partners in Health and Wholeness (PHW) offers an annual certification program to congregations across the state. Churches participating in PHW actively demonstrate their commitment to improving their health as well as the health of their community. By increasing physical activity, making healthier food and drink choices, eliminating the use of tobacco products and paying attention […]

Concord UMC: Planting Seeds and Watching Hearts Grow

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

By Kaitlyn Brodar, PHW Intern As the health lead for Concord UMC in Graham, NC, Donna Poe spends most of her time in the garden. Even as we were talking, she was hard at work picking caterpillars off the collard greens. “You know, it’s amazing what you can get accomplished while you’re kneeling over a […]

Concord UMC: Planting Seeds and Watching Hearts Grow

· by Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

By Kaitlyn Brodar, PHW Intern As the health lead for Concord UMC in Graham, NC, Donna Poe spends most of her time in the garden. Even as we were talking, she was hard at work picking caterpillars off the collard greens. “You know, it’s amazing what you can get accomplished while you’re kneeling over a […]

Health, Wholeness, and Climate Change?

By Nicole Johnson, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

“Partners in Health and Wholeness, an initiative of the North Carolina Council of Churches, is designed to bridge issues of faith, health and social justice.” These are the words that you find on our website that explain why we do what we do. The NC Council of Churches and its program areas like Partners in […]

Health, Wholeness, and Climate Change?

· by Nicole Johnson, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

“Partners in Health and Wholeness, an initiative of the North Carolina Council of Churches, is designed to bridge issues of faith, health and social justice.” These are the words that you find on our website that explain why we do what we do. The NC Council of Churches and its program areas like Partners in […]

PHW Success Story- Corinth AME Zion, Siler City

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

By Kaitlyn Brodar, PHW Intern I recently had the distinct pleasure of speaking with Norma Boone, the health lead at Corinth AME Zion Church in Siler City, NC.  The church has been actively involved with Partners in Health and Wholeness since 2012, and is currently a silver-certified congregation.  According to Norma, “Through this program, we […]

PHW Success Story- Corinth AME Zion, Siler City

· by Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

By Kaitlyn Brodar, PHW Intern I recently had the distinct pleasure of speaking with Norma Boone, the health lead at Corinth AME Zion Church in Siler City, NC.  The church has been actively involved with Partners in Health and Wholeness since 2012, and is currently a silver-certified congregation.  According to Norma, “Through this program, we […]

PHW Success Story- St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, Durham

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

By Kaitlyn Brodar, PHW Intern St. Philip’s Episcopal Church is a gold-level PHW congregation in Durham, North Carolina.  While the health ministry team and pastors have promoted health in a wide variety of ways over the past few years, they are particularly proud of a new project: bathroom door signs.  “I think this is a […]

PHW Success Story- St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, Durham

· by Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

By Kaitlyn Brodar, PHW Intern St. Philip’s Episcopal Church is a gold-level PHW congregation in Durham, North Carolina.  While the health ministry team and pastors have promoted health in a wide variety of ways over the past few years, they are particularly proud of a new project: bathroom door signs.  “I think this is a […]

PHW Success Story- Soul Harvest Apostolic Church, Spring Lake

By Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

By Kaitlyn Brodar, PHW Intern The Soul Harvest Apostolic Church is a gold-level PHW congregation that has been certified since 2012 and is firmly committed to healthy eating.  They have a vibrant community garden that provides a steady source of healthy, fresh vegetables for their soup kitchen, which feeds many individuals in their community.  Their […]

PHW Success Story- Soul Harvest Apostolic Church, Spring Lake

· by Chris Pernell, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

By Kaitlyn Brodar, PHW Intern The Soul Harvest Apostolic Church is a gold-level PHW congregation that has been certified since 2012 and is firmly committed to healthy eating.  They have a vibrant community garden that provides a steady source of healthy, fresh vegetables for their soup kitchen, which feeds many individuals in their community.  Their […]

August is National Breastfeeding Month

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Did you know that August is National Breastfeeding Month and that this week is World Breastfeeding Week? Breastfeeding has some important health implications for both mom and baby. It also has social, emotional and justice implications as well. For example, because only 13% of employers offer paid leave in the U.S., many women stop breastfeeding […]

August is National Breastfeeding Month

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Did you know that August is National Breastfeeding Month and that this week is World Breastfeeding Week? Breastfeeding has some important health implications for both mom and baby. It also has social, emotional and justice implications as well. For example, because only 13% of employers offer paid leave in the U.S., many women stop breastfeeding […]

Untapped Resources: A Treasure for One Congregation and Their Community

By Nicole Johnson, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

July 16, 2016 is the 2-month mark since Regional Coordinator for Western North Carolina became my full time position with the NCCC’s Partners in Health and Wholeness Initiative. This is significant for me because in these two months the exciting ministries of so many congregations in Western North Carolina have entered my world. One of those is […]

Untapped Resources: A Treasure for One Congregation and Their Community

· by Nicole Johnson, Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

July 16, 2016 is the 2-month mark since Regional Coordinator for Western North Carolina became my full time position with the NCCC’s Partners in Health and Wholeness Initiative. This is significant for me because in these two months the exciting ministries of so many congregations in Western North Carolina have entered my world. One of those is […]

Gun Violence and Public Health

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

New York City’s Health Commissioner, Dr. Mary Bassett, recently published a blog on the Huffington Post about Gun Violence as a public health issue. It is essential that we pay attention to this important aspect of the conversation about common sense gun control legislation. As Dr. Bassett states: “The mission of public health is to […]

Gun Violence and Public Health

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

New York City’s Health Commissioner, Dr. Mary Bassett, recently published a blog on the Huffington Post about Gun Violence as a public health issue. It is essential that we pay attention to this important aspect of the conversation about common sense gun control legislation. As Dr. Bassett states: “The mission of public health is to […]

Health Insurance for All Means Healthier Children

By Liz Millar, Medicaid Expansion Project Coordinator

All children deserve to have a strong start in life and the chance to become a happy, healthy, productive adults.  Infant mortality rates, or the number of infants who die before reaching their first birthday, are often a strong indicator of how healthy and well-off a country or a region is.  North Carolina’s infant mortality […]

Health Insurance for All Means Healthier Children

· by Liz Millar, Medicaid Expansion Project Coordinator

All children deserve to have a strong start in life and the chance to become a happy, healthy, productive adults.  Infant mortality rates, or the number of infants who die before reaching their first birthday, are often a strong indicator of how healthy and well-off a country or a region is.  North Carolina’s infant mortality […]

Eating Faithfully

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

What does it mean to eat faithfully?  This is a deeply personal, yet essentially communal question that we often don’t take the time to consider.  Delving into this question, however, can have some profound and worthwhile outcomes. In this article from the Duke Clergy Health Initiative, Reverend Grace Hackney addresses this question. It is a […]

Eating Faithfully

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

What does it mean to eat faithfully?  This is a deeply personal, yet essentially communal question that we often don’t take the time to consider.  Delving into this question, however, can have some profound and worthwhile outcomes. In this article from the Duke Clergy Health Initiative, Reverend Grace Hackney addresses this question. It is a […]

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New Staff Members Join the Council

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

The Council gained two new staff members in May. Meet Nicole Johnson and Jessica Stokes below.

New Staff Members Join the Council

· by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

The Council gained two new staff members in May. Meet Nicole Johnson and Jessica Stokes below.

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Five Questions Answered on Medicaid Expansion

By Liz Millar, Medicaid Expansion Project Coordinator

Why are health care premiums steadily going up? Gallup polls at the end of 2015 found that 74% of Americans say the amount they pay in premiums had gone up over the past year. While this is up a bit from 2014 (67%), according to Gallup, this is pretty much in line with what they’ve seen […]

Five Questions Answered on Medicaid Expansion

· by Liz Millar, Medicaid Expansion Project Coordinator

Why are health care premiums steadily going up? Gallup polls at the end of 2015 found that 74% of Americans say the amount they pay in premiums had gone up over the past year. While this is up a bit from 2014 (67%), according to Gallup, this is pretty much in line with what they’ve seen […]

A Reminder of Evelyn

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director of the NC Council of Churches The New York Times Sunday Magazine for May 15, 2016 – the annual health issue – focused entirely on cancer. Its last article, “Standard of Care,” was about a Catholic nursing home in New York which provides care for those who are dying […]

A Reminder of Evelyn

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

By George Reed, Retired Executive Director of the NC Council of Churches The New York Times Sunday Magazine for May 15, 2016 – the annual health issue – focused entirely on cancer. Its last article, “Standard of Care,” was about a Catholic nursing home in New York which provides care for those who are dying […]

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The Effort to Expand Medicaid in North Carolina Continues

By Liz Millar, Medicaid Expansion Project Coordinator

As the General Assembly’s biennial short session continues, Medicaid expansion continues to be a hot issue for North Carolina. On May 25, concerned citizens gathered outside the General Assembly for Medicaid Expansion Advocacy Day to demand that North Carolina expand Medicaid and join the majority of other states that have closed the health care coverage gap for their […]

The Effort to Expand Medicaid in North Carolina Continues

· by Liz Millar, Medicaid Expansion Project Coordinator

As the General Assembly’s biennial short session continues, Medicaid expansion continues to be a hot issue for North Carolina. On May 25, concerned citizens gathered outside the General Assembly for Medicaid Expansion Advocacy Day to demand that North Carolina expand Medicaid and join the majority of other states that have closed the health care coverage gap for their […]

PHW Reminder: Certify in May to Qualify for Mini-Grants in June

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Certification in the Council’s Partners in Health and Wholeness program is up and running. Faith communities must certify by May 31 to be eligible for mini-grant opportunities in June. In 2016, mini-grant applications will only be considered from June 1 to June 30. The next opportunity to apply will be in January, 2017. Program Coordinator Chris Pernell provides […]

PHW Reminder: Certify in May to Qualify for Mini-Grants in June

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Certification in the Council’s Partners in Health and Wholeness program is up and running. Faith communities must certify by May 31 to be eligible for mini-grant opportunities in June. In 2016, mini-grant applications will only be considered from June 1 to June 30. The next opportunity to apply will be in January, 2017. Program Coordinator Chris Pernell provides […]

Creating Healthier Food Pantries: Workshop and Lunch

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Every congregation I have worked with has collected and donated food as a part of their mission and outreach.  Feeding the hungry is an essential part of both the history and calling of the church, so we host canned food drives, stock food pantry shelves, and fill backpacks. This is important and meaningful work. But […]

Creating Healthier Food Pantries: Workshop and Lunch

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

Every congregation I have worked with has collected and donated food as a part of their mission and outreach.  Feeding the hungry is an essential part of both the history and calling of the church, so we host canned food drives, stock food pantry shelves, and fill backpacks. This is important and meaningful work. But […]

2016 Critical Issues Seminar — Register for Workshops

By Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Registration for 2016 Critical Issues Seminar workshops is now available online. If you have not yet registered, please use the form below to do so and include your selection for one workshop each from Session 1 and Session 2. Or you can complete and mail this form to NCCC 27 HORNE St., Raleigh, NC, 27607. […]

2016 Critical Issues Seminar — Register for Workshops

· by Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Registration for 2016 Critical Issues Seminar workshops is now available online. If you have not yet registered, please use the form below to do so and include your selection for one workshop each from Session 1 and Session 2. Or you can complete and mail this form to NCCC 27 HORNE St., Raleigh, NC, 27607. […]

Reform Medicaid by Expanding It

By Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Remarks delivered on March 30 by Volunteer Program Associate Sandy Irving at the Raleigh public hearing on Medicaid reform. As Medicaid reform is being planned, please consider including Medicaid expansion in the reform package. Providing health insurance for everyone and closing the gap for one-half million North Carolinians, currently without health insurance, is a moral […]

Reform Medicaid by Expanding It

· by Sandy Irving, Volunteer Program Associate

Remarks delivered on March 30 by Volunteer Program Associate Sandy Irving at the Raleigh public hearing on Medicaid reform. As Medicaid reform is being planned, please consider including Medicaid expansion in the reform package. Providing health insurance for everyone and closing the gap for one-half million North Carolinians, currently without health insurance, is a moral […]

State Medicaid Reform Could Be an Opportunity for Expansion

By Liz Millar, Medicaid Expansion Project Coordinator

Several public hearings have been planned around the state over the next few months to receive public input on the new plan for Medicaid reform. The plan would move Medicaid, the state program that serves about 1.9 million North Carolina residents, from a fee-for-service format toward a managed-care format. Under this change, Medicaid recipients can enroll in […]

State Medicaid Reform Could Be an Opportunity for Expansion

· by Liz Millar, Medicaid Expansion Project Coordinator

Several public hearings have been planned around the state over the next few months to receive public input on the new plan for Medicaid reform. The plan would move Medicaid, the state program that serves about 1.9 million North Carolina residents, from a fee-for-service format toward a managed-care format. Under this change, Medicaid recipients can enroll in […]

The Path Toward Energy Justice: Creating a Climate for Change

By Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Infographic by Tracy Loeffelholz Dunn / The Nation. Shutterstock images from Lorelyn Medina, Agusto Cabral The Clean Power Plan, and transitioning to a clean energy economy more broadly, are creating immense opportunities for community engagement in helping shape our states’ energy futures. Environmental justice champion, Rev. Leo Woodberry is focusing on bringing people together to […]

The Path Toward Energy Justice: Creating a Climate for Change

· by Susannah Tuttle, Eco-Justice Connection Director

Infographic by Tracy Loeffelholz Dunn / The Nation. Shutterstock images from Lorelyn Medina, Agusto Cabral The Clean Power Plan, and transitioning to a clean energy economy more broadly, are creating immense opportunities for community engagement in helping shape our states’ energy futures. Environmental justice champion, Rev. Leo Woodberry is focusing on bringing people together to […]

Medicaid Expansion Benefits Everyone in NC

By Liz Millar, Medicaid Expansion Project Coordinator

There is little dispute that Medicaid expansion stands to benefit more than 400,000 uninsured North Carolinians who currently fall in the coverage gap. What is more often disputed is the potential cost to the state. Under the established matching plan that would take effect from 2020 onward, federal funding would pay 90% of the cost of […]

Medicaid Expansion Benefits Everyone in NC

· by Liz Millar, Medicaid Expansion Project Coordinator

There is little dispute that Medicaid expansion stands to benefit more than 400,000 uninsured North Carolinians who currently fall in the coverage gap. What is more often disputed is the potential cost to the state. Under the established matching plan that would take effect from 2020 onward, federal funding would pay 90% of the cost of […]

Farmworkers and the ACA

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

The deadline for enrolling in the Health Insurance Marketplace came and went at the end of January. Though the ACA open enrollment period has passed, those experiencing certain life events – including marriage, moving, or a change in immigration status – may be eligible for a special enrollment period. While these life events may seem obvious […]

Farmworkers and the ACA

· by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

The deadline for enrolling in the Health Insurance Marketplace came and went at the end of January. Though the ACA open enrollment period has passed, those experiencing certain life events – including marriage, moving, or a change in immigration status – may be eligible for a special enrollment period. While these life events may seem obvious […]

“None of These Diseases” – Faith, Justice, and God’s Desire for Healthy Community

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

By Brian Hollingsworth, Partners in Health and Wholeness Intern, Wake Forest University School of Divinity …When they came to Marah, they could not drink the water of Marah because it was bitter…And the people complained against Moses, saying, “What shall we drink?” He cried out to the Lord; and the Lord showed him a piece […]

“None of These Diseases” – Faith, Justice, and God’s Desire for Healthy Community

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

By Brian Hollingsworth, Partners in Health and Wholeness Intern, Wake Forest University School of Divinity …When they came to Marah, they could not drink the water of Marah because it was bitter…And the people complained against Moses, saying, “What shall we drink?” He cried out to the Lord; and the Lord showed him a piece […]

The ACA and the Latino Community: Challenges and Successes

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

On March 23, 2010, President Obama signed the Affordable Care Act. This law put in place comprehensive health insurance reforms that helped to make health care more affordable and accessible for families, seniors, businesses, and taxpayers alike.  This includes previously uninsured Americans, and Americans who had insurance that didn’t provide them adequate coverage and security. […]

The ACA and the Latino Community: Challenges and Successes

· by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

On March 23, 2010, President Obama signed the Affordable Care Act. This law put in place comprehensive health insurance reforms that helped to make health care more affordable and accessible for families, seniors, businesses, and taxpayers alike.  This includes previously uninsured Americans, and Americans who had insurance that didn’t provide them adequate coverage and security. […]

New Medicaid Expansion Effort Launches — Presentations and Petition Available

By Liz Millar, Medicaid Expansion Project Coordinator

Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health care is the most shocking and inhumane.              –Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., in a speech to the Medical Committee for Human Rights, 1966 Sign the Petition Now The celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Day this past Monday provides an opportunity to reflect on Dr. King’s […]

New Medicaid Expansion Effort Launches — Presentations and Petition Available

· by Liz Millar, Medicaid Expansion Project Coordinator

Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health care is the most shocking and inhumane.              –Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., in a speech to the Medical Committee for Human Rights, 1966 Sign the Petition Now The celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Day this past Monday provides an opportunity to reflect on Dr. King’s […]

Health Care for Legal Immigrants: Resources and Events

By Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

To see this message in Spanish click here. Para ver este mensaje en español haga un clic aquí). At the North Carolina Council of Churches, we believe that access to health care for everyone is important. Our concern is especially great for those most vulnerable in our society: the poor, children, people of color, and […]

Health Care for Legal Immigrants: Resources and Events

· by Jennie Belle, Former Immigration and Farmworkers Director

To see this message in Spanish click here. Para ver este mensaje en español haga un clic aquí). At the North Carolina Council of Churches, we believe that access to health care for everyone is important. Our concern is especially great for those most vulnerable in our society: the poor, children, people of color, and […]

Wake Divinity School Grooms Young Leaders With Soil

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I have the pleasure of continuing to work with Fred Bahnson, director of the Food, Faith, and Religious Leadership Initiative at the Wake Forest University Divinity School. Partners in Health and Wholeness sent several of our leaders during the past few years, including Regional Coordinator Shannon Axtell Martin, and faith leader, Linda Tyndall, to the summer […]

Wake Divinity School Grooms Young Leaders With Soil

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I have the pleasure of continuing to work with Fred Bahnson, director of the Food, Faith, and Religious Leadership Initiative at the Wake Forest University Divinity School. Partners in Health and Wholeness sent several of our leaders during the past few years, including Regional Coordinator Shannon Axtell Martin, and faith leader, Linda Tyndall, to the summer […]

Strive to Revive Maintenance Grants

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

By Nicole Johnson, Strive to Revive Assistant The Strive to Revive (STR) Maintenance Grant Program is now open. This program is focused on providing resources, technical support, and financial assistance to congregations who have previously received an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) through the Strive To Revive Program. The deadline to apply is February 29. While the STR Maintenance […]

Strive to Revive Maintenance Grants

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

By Nicole Johnson, Strive to Revive Assistant The Strive to Revive (STR) Maintenance Grant Program is now open. This program is focused on providing resources, technical support, and financial assistance to congregations who have previously received an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) through the Strive To Revive Program. The deadline to apply is February 29. While the STR Maintenance […]

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Partnerships that Work: Linda Tyndall

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Sister Linda Tyndall has been a beautiful champion for health and faith outreach in Lumberton. Without her, I would not have known how to reach so many people in such a short time. A leader with the Come to the Table program said the same thing to me over the phone once. He mentioned that he […]

Partnerships that Work: Linda Tyndall

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Sister Linda Tyndall has been a beautiful champion for health and faith outreach in Lumberton. Without her, I would not have known how to reach so many people in such a short time. A leader with the Come to the Table program said the same thing to me over the phone once. He mentioned that he […]

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Pre-Diabetic?

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I just found out that I was pre-diabetic. This has never shown up in my blood draws before and I was stunned. “Really?” I say laughing, not sure how exactly to take this. “Well, you should watch what you eat, watch your protein/carbohydrate ratio, decrease stress levels, exercise regularly, and decrease how much sugar you […]

Pre-Diabetic?

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

I just found out that I was pre-diabetic. This has never shown up in my blood draws before and I was stunned. “Really?” I say laughing, not sure how exactly to take this. “Well, you should watch what you eat, watch your protein/carbohydrate ratio, decrease stress levels, exercise regularly, and decrease how much sugar you […]

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Kneading Bread Over the Holidays

By Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Waking up at 4:30 in the morning, oven alerting the baker to the first batch of fresh bread coming out of the oven — that is what I most remember about the holidays. My dad would hum and gallivant in the kitchen between mixing bread dough, basting loaves that were heading into the oven, and […]

Kneading Bread Over the Holidays

· by Joy Williams, Former PHW Regional Coordinator

Waking up at 4:30 in the morning, oven alerting the baker to the first batch of fresh bread coming out of the oven — that is what I most remember about the holidays. My dad would hum and gallivant in the kitchen between mixing bread dough, basting loaves that were heading into the oven, and […]

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Announcing Strive to Revive Maintenance Grants

By Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

By Nicole Johnson, Strive to Revive Assistant The Council is excited to announce our upcoming Strive to Revive Maintenance Grant Program. This program is focused on providing resources, financial assistance, and technical support to assist with the maintenance cost of the Automatic External Defibrillator your congregation received through Strive To Revive. It is our hope that this program […]

Announcing Strive to Revive Maintenance Grants

· by Shannon Axtell Martin, PHW Regional Coordinator

By Nicole Johnson, Strive to Revive Assistant The Council is excited to announce our upcoming Strive to Revive Maintenance Grant Program. This program is focused on providing resources, financial assistance, and technical support to assist with the maintenance cost of the Automatic External Defibrillator your congregation received through Strive To Revive. It is our hope that this program […]

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We’re Hiring: PHW Regional Coordinators in Western and Eastern NC

By Monica Motley, Former Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

The Council is hiring two full-time Partners in Health and Wholeness Regional Coordinators, one to serve in Western North Carolina and one to serve in Eastern North Carolina. Each will serve an eight-county region of congregations identified as Tier One by the North Carolina Department of Commerce and will contribute to overall statewide efforts to improve the health […]

We’re Hiring: PHW Regional Coordinators in Western and Eastern NC

· by Monica Motley, Former Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

The Council is hiring two full-time Partners in Health and Wholeness Regional Coordinators, one to serve in Western North Carolina and one to serve in Eastern North Carolina. Each will serve an eight-county region of congregations identified as Tier One by the North Carolina Department of Commerce and will contribute to overall statewide efforts to improve the health […]

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Congregations Provide Great Feedback for PHW Certification Improvements

By Monica Motley, Former Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

A big thank you to the 33 congregational participants in the PHW Certification Survey. Valuable feedback and suggestions were offered to better ensure that we are able to provide congregations with a certification program that provides the support and resources needed.  Overall, we learned that congregations really enjoy our certification program. We also learned that congregations would like to […]

Congregations Provide Great Feedback for PHW Certification Improvements

· by Monica Motley, Former Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness

A big thank you to the 33 congregational participants in the PHW Certification Survey. Valuable feedback and suggestions were offered to better ensure that we are able to provide congregations with a certification program that provides the support and resources needed.  Overall, we learned that congregations really enjoy our certification program. We also learned that congregations would like to […]

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