When the people of Sullivan County say they’re going to do something about it, consider it a promise. When there is a serious need to turn the health scene about-face on its heels, the boot lands there. 

In the most recent county health ranking via the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF), the county got a boost  –  and a much deserved one at that – to rank 57 out of 62 counties in New York State. This leap was based on improvement in 14 factors, which included increases in access to healthy food, growing percentage of a college educated population and a decrease in physical inactivity.

The elevation of these factors, and more, have been the direct result of a number of organizations sharing their time, resources and a steadfast commitment to one goal – creating a better, healthier living environment for all. 

The tie that binds, Sullivan 180 has made tremendous strides in connecting the community both emotionally, through a shared promise, and financially, through grants and awards. Our schools have been involved. Our fire departments have been involved. Everyone looking to make good has joined in their efforts to turn Sullivan County’s health scene around 180 degrees, one degree at a time, and it truly shows.

The push for access to healthier food is in part fronted by A Single Bite, the Hudson Valley Food Bank and the Federation for the Homeless in Monticello. The increasing number of college-educated individuals is being encouraged by SUNY Sullivan’s free tuition being offered to county residents through the County Legislature. A decrease in physical inactivity is being cheered on by Sullivan 180’s Healthiest Fire Department Challenge, and so much more. Not to mention, the Sullivan County District Attorney’s (DA) Office is continuing with their front-line program, Hope-Not-Handcuffs, to help combat drug addiction.

And these are just a few examples of the many organizations and individual initiatives that are full-steam ahead on keeping a promise to every generation of Sullivan County residents! Children, adults and elders are all priorities when dealing with issues of this scale. 

But contentment for seat number 57 should not be the mindset moving forward — the planted boot now has to keep twisting in the dirt to face the direction of healthier living. 

According to Sullivan County Public Health, one in four children in the area still live under the poverty line. Illegal substance use and overdoses are still rampant and are easily accessible. 

However, although a great amount of work remains, this tremendous accomplishment should not go without a pat on the back to all involved in making Sullivan County a better place to call home. Still fresh off the fever of Covid-19 and other struggles of recent years, the difference makers continue to make a difference; keep fighting the good fight.