First Posted: 9/18/2014

WILMINGTON — A Robeson County Health Department program focusing on children with special health care needs has received statewide recognition.

The Innovative Approaches Initiative was given a Local Health Department Child Health Recognition Award by the The North Carolina GlaxoSmithKline Foundation, which since 1986 has granted more than $61 million “to support North Carolina projects and programs that emphasize the understanding and application of health, science and education at all academic and professional levels.”

Robeson was one of three counties to receive Local Health Department Recognition Awards during North Carolina Public Health Association’s annual meeting in Wilmington on Wednesday.

“By collaborating with multiple community agencies and resources and using a systems-change approach rather than a program-based approach, Robeson more effectively serves families of children and youth with special health care needs,” a statement released by the foundation said of Robeson County’s program. Catawba County and Gaston County were also recognized.

Through surveys, support groups and recreational events, the Innovative Approaches Initiative connects families of children with special needs with each other, with health providers in schools and resources for transitioning to adult medical care.