Written By: Tyler Changaris, Director of Development at Family Service

Expanding Health Equity in Greater Coatesville: Reducing STI’s through Community Partnerships

At Family Service of Chester County, we believe that access to healthcare is a fundamental right, not a privilege. That’s why we launched the Coatesville Area Sexual Health Initiative, a vital program aimed at increasing health equity by providing comprehensive sexual health education, testing, and support to the Coatesville community. Thanks to the Seed-And-Scale grant from The Alliance for Health Equity, we’ve been able to expand our outreach and impact, ensuring that more individuals in Greater Coatesville receive the care and resources they need.

A Legacy of Service in Chester County

Since 1947, Family Service of Chester County has been committed to strengthening individuals and families through counseling, support services, and community-driven programs. For decades, we have worked to address the unique challenges facing Coatesville residents, from mental health care to housing support and HIV/AIDS medical case management. Recognizing the need for accessible prevention health services, we launched this program to help meet that need.

Building a Stronger, Healthier Community

When we began this initiative, our goal was clear: provide sexual health services supplies and education, particularly for African American men aged 18 and over. Through the Seed-And-Scale Match Fund, we’ve been able to reach hundreds of community members, providing essential services such as:

• Access to free and confidential STI/HIV testing
• Access to contraceptives and sexual health education
• One-on-one counseling and support for individuals navigating health challenges

By embedding these resources directly into the community, including local schools and healthcare centers, we are breaking down stigma and empowering individuals to take control of their health.

Sustaining the Change Beyond 2025

While the Seed-And-Scale funding has been instrumental in launching and growing this program, we are actively working to secure additional funding to maintain and expand our services. Through community partnerships, donor support, and fundraising initiatives, we aim to:

• Expand outreach efforts into more underserved neighborhoods
• Enhance education programs to reduce stigma and misinformation surrounding sexual health

With continued support from donors, community leaders, and organizations like AHE, we can ensure that every individual in Coatesville has access to the care they deserve.

We invite you to be part of this change. Whether through donating, volunteering, or spreading awareness, your involvement strengthens our mission and brings us one step closer to a healthier, more equitable future.

Together, we can make health equity a reality in Greater Coatesville. Join us today!