County Health News Briefs

Sunny Hill Nursing Home Reports Full Capacity: The county-owned Sunny Hill Nursing Home is operating at 100% capacity with all 156 beds filled and a waiting list, Administrator Maggie McDall told the health committee. Officials plan to review the facility’s admission policy next month, likely returning to prioritizing Will County residents only.

Transportation Agreement Advances: The committee unanimously approved an intergovernmental agreement between Joliet Township Government and the Will County Sheriff’s Office for transportation services supporting health and social service needs. The agreement, restructured into resolution and IGA formats following previous discussions, will next proceed to the executive committee.

Public Health Week Begins April 7: The Illinois Department of Public Health is celebrating National Public Health Week throughout April with daily 60-minute online presentations about the history and importance of public health. Committee Chair Dean Schlotman requested county website promotion of the event and information resources for residents.

Health Department Releases Annual Report: The Will County Health Department distributed its newly published annual report to committee members. Department representatives invited members to review the document for a comprehensive overview of programs and services provided throughout the past year.

Sunny Hill Completes Bed Replacement: Sunny Hill Nursing Home will finish installing new beds and mattresses on its final unit (6th Avenue) on April 8, completing upgrades to all six avenues in the facility. Officials have begun the process of securing ARPA funding for new bedroom furniture including nightstands, wardrobes, and drawer sets for all 156 resident rooms.

Nursing Home Garden Program Resumes: Sunny Hill residents will soon begin planting in raised garden beds on the facility’s lower-level patio. The life engagement team is working with residents to select plants for the gardens, with support from the Friends of Sunny Hill organization, which funds equipment and maintenance for exterior areas.

Health Collaborative Plans Forum: The Will County MAP Collaborative will host a forum on April 25 at St. Joseph Hospital from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. to present accomplishments from the past three years, share new health trend data, and establish priorities for the upcoming three-year cycle. The event is free and includes lunch.

Committee Chair Calls for Enhanced Nutrition Focus: Committee Chair Dean Schlotman urged health departments to place greater emphasis on nutritional education throughout their programs. “I would like this idea of good nutrition to be spread through all the departments, especially when combating illness and start working on building our immune systems,” Schlotman said.