SEACAC News
The Delta region, one of the most distressed areas in the nation, faces significant healthcare challenges, including limited access to care, high poverty rates, and low educational attainment. In response, the Southeast Arkansas Community Action Corporation (SEACAC) is leading an initiative to strengthen the healthcare workforce through education and support services.
Building upon the Delta Region Community Health Systems Development – Technical Assistance Program (DRCHSD), SEACAC aims to expand opportunities for healthcare workers serving medically underserved rural populations. The initiative focuses on:
- Increasing the number of certified healthcare professionals in the Delta.
- Training new entrants as certified caregivers or nursing assistants.
- Enhancing healthcare quality through continuing education for workers in long-term care facilities.
- Strengthening public-private partnerships for better healthcare coordination.
- Implementing an evidence-based caregiver training model and accredited allied health curriculum to improve retention rates.
A major milestone for SEACAC came in February 2025, when it received certification as a long-term care training facility. Shortly after, on March 20th, SEACAC celebrated its first graduating class, which included: Kristi Atkins, Daisha Brandon, Brandy Davis, Takendra McNeary, Rosalyn Miller, Aliyah Smith, Ethan Ward, and Audrey Washington.
To support this initiative, SEACAC has partnered with key organizations, including the University of Arkansas at Monticello, Immaculate Healthcare Professionals, and Phoenix Youth and Family Services. These partnerships help provide training, job placement, and continuing education in Ashley, Bradley, Chicot, Desha, and Drew counties, ultimately improving healthcare access and outcomes in the region.
Recognizing the financial challenges that may prevent students from completing their training, SEACAC provides stipends to CNA students to cover transportation, child care, or other expenses that could create barriers to retention. This support ensures that more students can successfully complete their certification and enter the workforce.
With its first graduates now equipped to serve their communities, SEACAC continues to drive progress in healthcare workforce development, ensuring better care for the Delta’s rural populations.
SEACAC Building Opportunities
Graduates with Michael Jones, SEACAC Executive Director
April 4, 2025 | Written by Michael Jones
SEACACAC is in compliance with Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act and is operated, manages and delivers services without regard to age, religion, disability, political affiliation, veteran status, sex, race, color or national origins.
