At a glance
Each region of the United States experiences climate change and its impacts on health differently. Read about success stories in the Southern Great Plains.
Kaw Nation
Indigenous communities face health effects from climate change, ranging from limited water resources, extreme weather events, and higher temperatures. The Kaw Nation (located in what is now called Oklahoma) received a one-time mini-grant from CDC and the National Indian Health Board (NIHB) in 2019 for a project focused on local community education and outreach related to climate and health. They created fact sheets and other communications materials to help inform community members of potential climate-related threats and steps to protect health. A major focus was the health impacts of heat.
Harris County Public Health, Texas
Communities disproportionately impacted by climate change struggle to make their voices heard among policymakers and can receive resources to increase resilience. With support from a 2021 mini-grant from CDC via the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO), Harris County Public Health (HCPH) began integrating a two-way communication platform into their existing climate program. Here, they can both advise about climate risks and members can share their stories and needs. This plan intends to enhance climate and health knowledge within the county, as well as strengthen the HCPH's outreach to communities most at risk.