During the evaluation of the 2021 CHA data, we carefully examined the health and socioeconomic factors that could affect the health of the residents in all census tracts in the county. Among them, the census tract closest to the health department stands out with its high poverty level and poor health outcomes. To address this concern, our dedicated staff has taken action by forming a workgroup comprising stakeholders from various county organizations. The primary objective of this workgroup is to promote community engagement and gain a deeper understanding of the needs of the neighborhood residents, and provide the necessary support to improve access to care and resources in the community. We also organize community events to engage residents, create a vibrant environment, and inform them about our health department programs and services.

Current stakeholders include: 

• City of Gastonia 
• Gaston County Public Library 
• Gaston-Cleveland-Lincoln Metropolitan Planning Organization 
• Gaston County Public Schools 
• NC Cooperative Extension 
• Kintegra Health

We primarily serve the neighborhood community members living in close proximity to the health department. Our goal is to provide accessible and comprehensive healthcare services, resources, and support tailored to the unique needs of this local community. 

Through community engagement and collaboration, we aim to foster a healthier environment and ensure residents have access to the care they need.

The Mountainview neighborhood initiative has dedicated its efforts to being more present in the neighborhood.  We have partnered with a local faith based organization to do community outreach and education.  Public health has continued to distribute naloxone, condoms, and information about our services offered monthly.  

Access to Healthcare and Neighborhood Health 

Gaston County is a diverse community that shares its eastern border with Mecklenburg County.  This geographic positioning drives many of the socio-economic factors in the community with nearly 30% of Gaston County workers commuting to Mecklenburg County.  This commuting pattern creates a pattern of wealth in the eastern part of the county with large areas of poverty and inadequate access to care predominately in the western part of the county.  There is roughly a 20 year difference in life expectancy between the impoverished areas of the county and the areas of high wealth. 

Access to Care – Activities

After reviewing the pertinent data and working with community partners, Gaston County determined that the best approach to Access to Care was to target a specific census tract / neighborhood to address access to care issues.  The Mountainview neighborhood, which is physically located in the same census tract as the primary location of the health department has high rates of poverty, including a public housing complex, heart disease, diabetes, and uninsured individuals.

After conducting a number of activities designed to develop relationships with the community in the past two years, Gaston County Public Health has heightened the relationship with the community in the most recent year.  Highlights of activities include:

Family Movie Night – This community engagement event attracted 166 individuals, primarily representing families with young children.  Public Health services were promoted and recreational games and nutritious snacks were made available.

Naloxone Distribution Event – Public Health provided education and distribution of Naloxone kits.  There were 50 individuals who received the kits and received the recommended educational programming.

Gaston County Public Health has also partnered with a local church to  create “Sunday Funday” monthly events for Mountain View Neighborhood. The goal is to connect residents to resources and services available from a variety of organizations. Residents enjoyed music and food, face painting, and a bouncy house for children. The church also provided food bags from their new Food Pantry for residents. 

Public Health staff provided information on immunizations and general services provided by Gaston County Public Health. Other vendors included the Gaston County Police Department, Hopes Helping Hands of NC, and the Department of Social Services Medicaid office.