FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SENT Inc. and KDHE Partner to Expand Maternal Health and Family Wellness in Southeast Topeka
Topeka, KS — [AUGUST 2025] — SENT Inc. (Strengthening and Equipping Neighborhoods Together) is proud to announce a transformational new partnership with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) through a $250,000 grant to lead a Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage Pilot. This 14-month initiative, active from May 2025 through June 2026, is designed to expand access to mental, physical, and maternal health services in Southeast Topeka—supporting women, infants, and families during one of life’s most critical and vulnerable seasons.
This initiative is about more than one program or one demographic. While expectant mothers will receive a deep level of wraparound services—including doula care, chiropractic support, occupational therapy, massage, mental and physical health support, and more—the heart of the grant goes far beyond these lives. Every mother. Every child. Every family who walks through our doors will feel the impact. This initiative is about more than one program or one demographic.
“This partnership gives us the power to not only walk beside expectant moms with a beautiful, customized circle of support—but to also elevate the standard of care and compassion for every woman and family that reaches out to us,” said Johnathan Sublet, Executive Director of SENT Inc. “This work is not just about pregnancy. It’s about protecting mental health, building resilience, and creating systems that see the whole person and family. When we do that, we don’t just change outcomes—we change generations.“
Under the terms of the partnership, SENT will:
- Expand maternal, child, and adolescent health services through its Southside Wellness Clinic, including well-woman exams, flu shots, STD testing, and routine labs.
- Provide expectant mothers with Doula care through SENT’s partnership with the Topeka Doula Project, a community-rooted organization dedicated to providing culturally responsive and empowering birth support.
- Broaden access to mental health and addiction counseling using a comprehensive wellness model.
Ensure families can reach essential care through transportation options such as our People Mover, Uber, Lyft, or bus support. - Deliver services through a “one-stop shop” approach, integrating SNAP access via mRelief, therapy and case management, food access through the Southside Filling Station, and individualized referrals.
- Capture meaningful data and patient stories to inform better outcomes and advocate for systemic change.
The Southside Wellness Clinic and SENT’s collaborative neighborhood-based model serve as the foundation for this work. Whether it’s a new mom seeking therapy, a caregiver accessing resources for their family, or a pregnant teen navigating support options—this effort is designed to meet people where they are, eliminate barriers, and provide whole-person care.
“Too often, women fall through the cracks before, during, or after pregnancy,” said Sublet. “This partnership ensures we’re not just filling those gaps—we’re building bridges to long-term wellness.”
As the pilot continues, SENT will share about our resources available through its platforms to keep the community engaged and informed. Those seeking support can visit the Southside Wellness Clinic or contact SENT Neighbor Advocates directly to learn more about services available.
About SENT Inc.
SENT Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the holistic transformation of neighborhoods in Shawnee County, Kansas. Through strategic partnerships, place-based investment, and neighbor-led initiatives, SENT walks beside individuals and families to address the root causes of community challenges and build systems of opportunity and health.
Media Inquiries & Interviews:
For interview requests or more information about this partnership, please contact Johnathan Sublet at 📧 johnathan@senttopeka.com or 📞 (785) 783-2535.