At ITAVFoundation, we understand that a healthy community is an informed community. October is Health Literacy Month, a time to highlight the critical role education plays in empowering individuals to make informed health decisions. Whether it’s understanding how to manage a chronic illness, knowing the steps to access healthcare services, or learning how to care for yourself during pregnancy, health literacy affects everyone.

What Is Health Literacy? Health literacy is the ability to find, understand, and use health information to make decisions about your well-being. In underserved communities, where access to healthcare is often limited, this knowledge can be life-changing. A lack of health literacy can lead to poor health outcomes, including an increased risk of chronic diseases, preventable hospitalizations, and a lack of awareness around crucial preventative measures like vaccinations and screenings.

ITAVFoundation’s Commitment to Health Literacy in the Community At ITAVFoundation, we are committed to bridging the gap in health education by providing resources and support to individuals and families in underserved communities. Through our Education and Awareness Programs, we focus on ensuring that everyone—from teens to older adults—has access to the information they need to lead healthier lives.

Our programs include:

• Maternal Health and Support: We offer education on reproductive health, prenatal care, childbirth, and postpartum care for young and expectant mothers.
• Access to Support: We connect individuals and families with the resources they need to thrive. From helping community members find affordable healthcare and social services to guiding them through applying for assistance programs, we provide the support necessary to navigate life’s challenges. Whether it’s accessing food, housing, or healthcare, we are here to ensure our community knows where to turn for help.
• Mental Health Awareness: Understanding mental health is essential for overall well-being. We provide education on recognizing signs of mental health issues and accessing local support services.

Why Health Literacy Matters Health literacy goes beyond just understanding information—it’s about having the confidence to make decisions and advocate for yourself and your family. In underserved communities, where healthcare resources may be scarce, education can mean the difference between thriving and struggling. By promoting health literacy, ITAVFoundation is empowering individuals to take control of their health and build stronger, healthier communities.

How You Can Help We invite you to join us in promoting health literacy. Share our resources, attend our workshops, and spread the word about the importance of health education. Together, we can make sure that everyone in our community has the tools they need to live healthier, happier lives.

For more information on our programs, visit ITAVFoundation’s website and see how you can get involved!