Community Voices Call for Equitable Health in Wyandotte County Budget
KANSAS CITY, Kan., August 22, 2025 — As the Unified Government of Wyandotte County begins its budget planning for the coming year, local health leaders and advocates gathered this week to highlight the importance of prioritizing community health.
Hosted by the American Heart Association, the event convened stakeholders from universities, faith communities, health centers, and neighborhood organizations. Discussions focused on expanding access to care, strengthening local health services, and restoring funding to programs that directly impact residents’ well-being.
“In Wyandotte County, a healthy community is a safer community,” said Nikki Richardson, Chief Executive Director of Justice for Wyandotte. “The Unified Government’s budget is more than numbers on a page; it is a moral document that reflects our values and priorities. Through our Healthy 33% campaign, we are calling on the Unified Government to craft a budget that creates true health equity—where every resident has access to the care, resources, and support they need to thrive.”
Wyandotte County faces significant health challenges, including a physician-to-patient ratio of 1:1,800 and nearly 40% of residents living with diagnosed high blood pressure—a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
“Hypertension is not only a deadly disease, but also an expensive one,” said Kelly Nichols, Community Advocacy Director for the American Heart Association. “Our data shows that people managing chronic hypertension can pay over $300 more out-of-pocket annually than those without the disease. With strong, publicly funded health infrastructure, communities gain access to wraparound services that improve outcomes and reduce long-term costs.”
A major focus of the community conversation was the restoration of the Livable Neighborhoods budget. At the Unified Government meeting on August 7, the County Administrator announced that funding would be restored to 2024 levels. Community leaders emphasized that this investment will ensure residents can voice priorities, share needs, and connect with resources for health, housing, and neighborhood improvements.
The tone of the gathering was one of hope and collaboration. Stephanie Moss, local nurse practitioner and American Heart Association Heart Powered advocate, affirmed the importance of this investment: “Wyandotte County—and its people—are worth this investment.”
The American Heart Association encourages residents to make their voices heard by urging the Unified Government to prioritize health in its budget. Community members can take action now by sending a message to local leaders at midwestregioncampaigns.heartpowered.org/campaign/135835.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
DeEtta Lee, American Heart Association, Sr. Communications Director
DeEtta.Lee@heart.org
