Grove City Launches New Pilot Program to Help Residents with Health Insurance Costs
Grove City has introduced a new initiative aimed at easing the financial burden of health insurance for local residents. The program, called Grove City Cares, is designed to reimburse qualifying individuals and families for a portion of their yearly health insurance costs. This pilot project was approved by the city council on Monday night with a close vote of four to three.
Councilmember Ted Berry, one of the key figures behind the program, emphasized the importance of addressing the growing issue of medical debt in the community. “I’ve met several people that have ended up in thousands and thousands of dollars in debt, and they’ll never be able to repay it,” he said. “We’re trying to create something where it actually helps people, keeps them from going into debt, keeps people out of the emergency room, and it helps our businesses.”
The program is open to individuals who live or work in Grove City. The first round of reimbursements will begin in 2026, marking the start of what could become a long-term solution for many residents.
Financial Assistance Based on Income Levels
The amount of reimbursement depends on the type of health insurance coverage and the applicant’s income level. For individuals with single coverage under an Affordable Care Act (ACA) plan, the maximum reimbursement in 2026 is $400, provided their yearly income is $35,000 or less. For families or couples with a combined income of $50,000 or less, the maximum reimbursement is $600.
Berry explained how the program works: “We’re trying to partner with the citizens to say, hey, if you throw in 300 and we throw in a certain dollar amount, we’re getting there, and you’ve got healthcare, and you don’t have to go to the emergency room.” This approach aims to reduce the reliance on emergency care, which can be more costly for both individuals and the community.
Funding and Future Plans
The program’s initial budget for 2026 is expected to be around $75,000, which will come from the city’s general fund. This money is sourced from taxpayer dollars, and Berry believes the investment is worth it. “It’s a very, very small amount of money to pay to help people out, to help them be successful, to give them the bootstraps they need to pull themselves up,” he said.
He also hopes the program will encourage small businesses in the area to consider Grove City as a viable location. Many small businesses struggle to provide health insurance for their employees, and this initiative may offer some relief.
Potential for Expansion and Adjustments
While the program is set to launch in 2026, it is not expected to remain static. Berry mentioned that the city council will closely monitor its performance and make adjustments as needed. “The program can and likely will be adjusted as councilmembers observe how it works in 2026,” he said.
According to the committee that developed the program, it is believed to be the first of its kind in Ohio and across the country. This makes Grove City a pioneer in addressing health care affordability through local policy.
How to Apply
Applications for the reimbursement program will be available online starting January 1, 2026. Residents interested in participating will need to meet the eligibility criteria based on income and insurance coverage.
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