Whitehall-Coplay Communities That Care coalition met Dec. 17 for the last time of 2021. At the meeting, Scott Hoke and Kerrie Baker, from Cedar Crest College, attended the meeting to gain input for Lehigh Valley Health Network’s Community Health Assessment.

Hoke reported they collect data every three years from community members regarding their primary health concerns. They hold focus groups throughout the area, and the information is used in LVHN’s planning for the next few years.

The discussion opened with Hoke asking the group how they define health. The majority of the group members stressed the importance of not only physical health, but mental and emotional health as well.

Coalition members were given a list of perceived health needs in the area and were asked to identify which ones they believed were most important. Each member chose three items from the list and shared with the group.

The top needs, according to the majority choice, are the growing Hispanic population who may experience social and economic disadvantages; potential barriers to health due to housing instability; not all 3- and 4-year-olds are enrolled in preschool; and suicide rates.

On the other hand, coalition members reported a strength in the community is the sense of collaboration and support. It was noted many of the systems and organizations communicate well with each other, which allows for easier access to resources for those in need.

Regarding the growing Hispanic population, it was also mentioned Whitehall-Coplay School District has a large Middle Eastern population, which speaks Arabic. It was reported the Whitehall and Coplay communities have noticed a more rapid evolution of population change in the last four to six years.

Coalition members discussed language barriers, access to transportation and other disadvantages that all connect. It was also noted it can be hard to reach the needs of these people when the culture isn’t known.

WCSD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Robert Steckel spoke on preschool enrollment. He noted the success of students learning basic skills during those formative years is indicative of future successes. He reported the students coming into the district have varying backgrounds and readiness coming into kindergarten and having those preschool years helps level the playing field.

It was noted the advantages of enrolling in preschool are not only academic. Students are given valuable socialization skills, and those years can help with early intervention of things such as speech concerns.

Allison Frantz, from the Suicide Prevention Coalition of Lehigh County, noted more people are dying from suicides than motor vehicle accidents and that suicide is the second highest cause of death among younger people. According to the data sheet from Hoke, there were a total of 285 suicide deaths between 2015 and 2019.

There was discussion among the members about seeing an increase in suicide attempts and ideation among youths in the community. The Pennsylvania Youth Survey data reflected this increase as well.

Group members noted there is a stigma surrounding mental health issues, such as depression, which can lead to suicidal ideation and attempts. It was mentioned if people feel more comfortable talking about their mental health problems, there is a greater opportunity to offer help and resources to those who may need it.

When asked if the COVID-19 pandemic and increase in social isolation has affected the rates, Frantz reported they actually noticed a decrease in suicides across different demographics. However, the highest number is being seen in people under 30.

Hoke asked if the size of the community is a benefit. Coalition members reported many of the communities within the township and borough have a tight-knit feeling. Whitehall is separated into villages, which helps connect neighbors to each other.

Steckel said they have the diverse population of a larger urban area with a small-town suburban feel and resources to help.

When asked what the role of a health network should be in the community, coalition members said educating, advocating for system change to avoid a disparity in resources for physical and mental health, investing in the community and more.

In other business, representatives from Valley Youth House and Center for Humanistic Change reported on programs they are offering in the district, such as Second Step and Too Good For Drugs.

Michelle Khouri, district registrar and community outreach, reported the Snack Pack Pals program sent 152 bags home with students Dec. 15, 2021. She mentioned the district, with help from community members and Lafarge, was able to send Christmas baskets with food stuffs and gift cards home to 40 families.

The CTC will next meet 8:30 a.m. Jan. 21.