Molinalogo

06/05/2024

BURLINGTON, Iowa, June 3, 2024 – Molina Healthcare of Iowa (“Molina”) presented a $25,000 grant to the Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates (iJAG), an organization that partners with local schools to increase graduation rates, improve workforce skills, and help young people successfully transition to life after high school. The Molina donation will address non-academic needs like food and hygiene products so that students can focus on academic success. 

iJAG has served over 35,000 students since it began in 1999. The nonprofit works with educators and employers to develop in-class activities and projects outside the classroom to bridge education and the workplace. Combined with leadership training and engagement with employers, the program is centered on the unique interests of every student. This hands-on, purpose-driven approach helps students reach academic benchmarks, contributing to a 97% graduation rate and 76% employment rate for program participants, half of which are students of color. 

“Supporting iJAG means Molina is supporting the future of Iowa, and it’s important that we remove obstacles to the success of students,” said Jennifer Vermeer, plan president for Molina Healthcare of Iowa. “This partnership aligns with Molina’s holistic approach to well-being and we look forward to seeing iJAG participants thrive beyond after completing their academic journey.”  

The funding will create Molina Corners in classrooms, stocked with shampoo, body and laundry soaps, toothpaste, and other sundries. Lack of access to these items can lead to illness, bullying, and low self-esteem. Feminine products will also be available as multiple studies have noted the importance of access to these necessities. “Period Poverty”, which the American Medical Women’s Association defines as inadequate access to menstrual hygiene tools and education, affects 1 in 4 students, and can lead to higher rates of stress and depression and lowered academic performance. 

"We are so thankful for our public-private partnership with Molina to support iJAG student well-being by providing access to essential resources,” Dr. Wendy Mihm-Herold, iJAG president and CEO. “This collaboration not only helps ensure our students have what they need to thrive and achieve their career and post-secondary goals, but also demonstrates a shared commitment to the well-being of families and communities across Iowa. The incredible support of Molina showcases that we are truly better together."  

The Molina grant will support the needs of the students in Burlington High School, Clinton High School, Clinton Middle School, DSM Lincoln High School, McCombs Middle School, Sioux City West High School, and Le Mars CSD.          

About Molina Healthcare of Iowa  
Molina Healthcare of Iowa, Inc. serves members through its Medicaid program in Iowa. Through its locally operated health plans, Molina Healthcare, Inc., a Fortune 500 company, provides managed health care services under the Medicaid and Medicare programs, and through state insurance marketplaces. For more information about Molina Healthcare of Iowa, visit MolinaHealthcare.com.