Imagine facing a health need but lacking the insurance to address it. For many in Minnesota, this is a reality, especially when it comes to sexual and reproductive health services. Recognizing this, recent legislative updates in 2023 transformed the Family Planning grant, renaming it Sexual & Reproductive Health Services (SRHS) and expanding its reach to provide essential STI testing, treatment, pregnancy testing, and education for those without access to care.
The SRHS program serves Meeker, McLeod, and Sibley Counties, collaborating with Ridgewater College and local jails to increase community engagement. At Ridgewater College in Hutchinson, SRHS hosts events such as pizza, trivia, and BINGO nights, creating comfortable spaces for students to learn about sexual health. Information about SRHS is also shared during the college’s annual Community Health Fair and “Welcome Day,” where students and parents can access educational materials, brochures, and free condoms.
Throughout all three counties, SRHS offers free condoms, testing (urine samples), and treatment for chlamydia and gonorrhea, along with pregnancy testing. Educational resources foster discussions and a deeper understanding of sexual health among participants. According to 2023 STI data from the Minnesota Department of Health, chlamydia remains the most reported STI in the state, with 21,767 cases—a slight 1.6% decrease from 2022. Gonorrhea, the second most reported STI, saw a 5.5% decrease, with 7,717 cases reported in 2023.
With expanded access and outreach, SRHS is helping to build healthier futures across Meeker, McLeod, and Sibley Counties.
