The MolinaCares Accord (“MolinaCares”), in collaboration with Molina Healthcare of Illinois (“Molina”), announced a $100,000 grant to support the Illinois Public Health Association’s (“IPHA”) new community health worker (“CHW”) pilot program that aims to reduce procedural Medicaid disenrollment during redetermination – the annual Medicaid renewal process.

Across the country, the most common reason eligible people lose Medicaid coverage is missed paperwork and other procedural issues. As Illinois prepares for federal health coverage eligibility changes in 2027, ensuring residents understand how these updates may affect their coverage will be critical. CHWs are uniquely positioned to build trust, meet people where they are, and guide them through the steps needed to maintain coverage.

“Community health workers are trusted partners who understand their communities and can help residents navigate the healthcare system with confidence,” said Krissy Roseberry, associate deputy executive director at the Illinois Public Health Association. “Through our partnership with Molina, we’re building on those trusted relationships to provide clear information and hands-on support during the Medicaid renewal process, helping eligible community members maintain their health coverage and continuity of care.”

The grant will support the launch of the CHW pilot program by funding multiple CHW positions, deploying them into eight high-need communities to provide outreach, education, and Medicaid application assistance. The funding will also cover staffing, travel, supplies, and administrative costs that strengthen redetermination efforts in local communities. The pilot program is being implemented in Adams, Macon, Sangamon, Champaign, St. Clair, Madison, Peoria, and Vermillion counties.

“As a part of our commitment to bridging barriers to care, Molina prioritizes partnerships that help our communities maintain their health benefits,” said Kris Classen, plan president of Molina Healthcare of Illinois. “Supporting IPHA’s CHW pilot program not only provides education and hands-on assistance to eligible residents, but also helps strengthen the stability of the healthcare system by reducing avoidable coverage gaps and supporting continuity of care.”

This latest investment is part of the over $5 million that Molina and MolinaCares have contributed in Illinois over the past two years to community organizations that play a vital role in strengthening health across the state.

About The MolinaCares Accord

Established by Molina Healthcare, Inc., The MolinaCares Accord oversees a community investment platform created to improve the health and well-being of disadvantaged populations by funding meaningful, measurable, and innovative programs and solutions that improve health, life, and living in local communities. The MolinaCares Accord funds such measures through the Molina Healthcare Charitable Foundation, a 501(c)(3) established in 2020 by Molina Healthcare, Inc.

About Molina Healthcare of Illinois

Molina Healthcare of Illinois, Inc. provides government-funded, quality healthcare, serving members through Medicaid, Medicare, and Marketplace programs in Illinois. Through its locally operated health plans, Molina Healthcare, Inc., a Fortune 500 company, provides managed health care services under the Medicaid and Medicare programs, and through state insurance marketplaces. For more information about Molina Healthcare of Illinois, visit MolinaHealthcare.com.

About Illinois Public Health Association

Established in 1940, the Illinois Public Health Association, an affiliate of the American Public Health Association, is Illinois’ oldest and largest statewide organization dedicated exclusively to public health. IPHA strengthens public health across Illinois by connecting and supporting public health professionals and community partners, building workforce capacity, and advancing programs and policies that improve health and health equity. Learn more at www.IPHA.com.

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