BWell Saginaw Program Wins Top MDHHS Award for Transforming Community Health | PRIMENEWSNOW

Celebrating Health Innovation in Saginaw

The Saginaw County Health Department has been honored with the prestigious Michigan Department of Health & Human Services Director’s Award for its innovative contributions to community health. This accolade was presented at the 2025 Michigan Premier Public Health Conference held in Muskegon in late October.

Transforming Community Health

Recognized as more than just a program, BWell Saginaw is a collaborative movement involving 12 organizations, all striving to position Saginaw among Michigan’s top 25 healthiest communities. Acting as a neutral facilitator, the health department leads the BWell Partner Coalition, fostering a health-centric culture where everyone can thrive, regardless of their background.

Innovative Approaches to Health and Equity

This award celebrates local health departments that employ creative strategies to enhance health, well-being, and equity. BWell Saginaw’s initiatives, such as the “Healthier Me” podcast, Step Up & BWell school programs, the ABCs of Safe Sleep campaign, the BWell Strides Toward Wellness Race Series, and the BWell Youth Mental Healthopedia, were particularly highlighted.

Collaboration Across Sectors

“BWell Saginaw stands out for its extensive collaboration across various sectors and communities,” stated the award presenters. “By integrating clinical care, public health, education, and grassroots efforts, BWell Saginaw has crafted a unified strategy. This partnership-driven approach is the future of public health.”

Supporting Future Initiatives

The health department was awarded a traveling trophy and $1,000 to further support BWell programming.

Partners in Health

The BWell Saginaw Partner Coalition includes Covenant HealthCare, MyMichigan Health, HealthSource, Great Lakes Bay Health Centers, CMU Medical Education Partners, Saginaw Valley State University, Saginaw County Community Mental Health Authority, Saginaw Community Foundation, United Way of Saginaw County, Saginaw County Intermediate School District, and MDHHS-Saginaw.