The Northampton Board of Health is ramping up efforts to engage the community in a critical health survey, aiming to reach a goal of 5,000 respondents. During the meeting on December 19, 2024, Board members discussed various outreach strategies to enhance participation, including leveraging local resources such as neighborhood listservs and public schools.

Kelly, a program coordinator, highlighted the ongoing outreach initiatives, noting that the team has been actively working through a comprehensive list of potential contacts. Recent efforts included utilizing the Parent Square communication system to reach families in the Northampton School District, which resulted in a noticeable increase in survey responses following a notification sent just before Thanksgiving.

The survey is accessible online, and paper copies are available for those without internet access. Community members can also receive assistance in completing the survey over the phone or in person, ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to participate.

In addition to the survey discussions, the Board transitioned to a hearing segment of the meeting, where updates and comments from department representatives were anticipated. This dual focus on community engagement and departmental updates underscores the Board's commitment to addressing public health needs effectively.

As the Board continues its outreach efforts, the emphasis on collaboration with local organizations and schools is expected to play a crucial role in achieving the survey goal, ultimately enhancing the health services available to Northampton residents.