Protect Medicaid in Missouri

We want to hear your Medicaid stories!

Right now, Congress is considering a federal budget reconciliation bill that could result in devastating cuts to Medicaid. These cuts would impact millions—including children, older adults, people with disabilities, and working families across Missouri.

Our team at the Community Health Commission of Missouri (CHCM), is collecting stories from Missourians who have been impacted by Medicaid. We want to hear about your experiences and Medicaid's role in helping you get critical care, support a loved one, or bridging a gap during hard times.

Share your MO Medicaid story

CHCM launches “AIR of Equity” Artist-in-Residence program

Thursday, August 28, 2025

The Community Health Commission of Missouri (CHCM) is excited to announce that applications are now open for the AIR of Equity Artist-in-Residence Program. This year-long residency merges artistic innovation with health equity advocacy, offering an immersive opportunity for one St. Louis–based artist to create alongside communities most affected by health disparities.

“Art has always been a force for truth-telling and collective healing,” said Aja Owens, CHCM Implementation Manager, change agent, and poet. “This residency will create space for art to drive equity, policy change, and stronger connections across our communities.”

Aja Owens, CHCM Implementation Manager, change agent, and poet

The selected artist will spend 12 months embedded within CHCM, collaborating with community partners and residents to co-create projects that uplift lived experiences and spark conversations around racial and economic health inequities. The residency will bring health justice to life in new and transformative ways, through storytelling, visual arts, performance, and multimedia.

Residency highlights and creative aims: 

  • A stipend available, up to $10,000  
  • $5,000 project and materials budget 
  • Hosting at least one community engagement event, such as storytelling circles, workshops, or installations
  • Co-creating works informed by community voices and CHCM’s health equity data
  • A final public showcase in June 2026   

Artists of all disciplines are encouraged to apply—visual, literary, performance, multimedia, music, dance, and beyond. Applicants should live or work in the St. Louis region and demonstrate a commitment to community engagement, social practice, or interdisciplinary collaboration. 

Download the application information

Deadline: Friday, September 19, 2025 at 11:59 PM CST 
Apply by emailing a single PDF to info@chcmissouri.org 
Click here to learn more.

Have questions about the application process? See our upcoming office hour events to talk to CHCM staff!

Office Hours for Application Questions

Have questions about the application process? Chat with CHCM staff about your application during the following hours.

Join us in using art to create new ways to listen, heal, and act together for health equity.