Good morning, Jefferson City.

For nearly a decade, Lincoln University alumnae known as the 36 Divas (members of the Alpha Theta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta) have returned each Homecoming to distribute care packages with toiletries, school supplies and food to students.

The project strengthens connections and accepts outside donations to support needs.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services announced on Tuesday a $4.2M grant to expand rural EMS training (in partnership with the Department of Social Services and the Missouri Emergency Medical Services Association) aimed at improving emergency response times in long-ambulance-travel areas.

Emily Byrd, a Missouri Medicaid enrollee, is challenging a federal rule — which ties work requirements to proving medical frailty — after losing coverage twice to paperwork issues; Missouri officials say they are working with healthcare advocates to improve eligibility checks.

Jill Wood said her husband's death led to the creation of the Cappy Classic Foundation, which raised funds through an annual event and scholarships for Cole County high school seniors.

The foundation also launched Stay Day on Sept. 10 to promote suicide awareness and support for local families.