I thank the community for supporting the work of the River Valley Healthy Communities Coalition.

The RVHCC assesses our region to identify the needs affecting health and quality of life, and works to match those needs with existing resources. If a resource does not exist, the RVHCC works to create one.

The River Valley Healthy Communities has secured funding for schools for health promotion and education; presented anti-smoking programs to elementary students; provided free “quit kits” for smoking cessation classes; distributed “baby kits” of health information to all new mothers of the area; provided dental sealants to second-grade students; provided lead test kits to residents; provided “camperships” to children to attend day camp; developed a directory listing the existing arts and cultural activities in the area; created a comprehensive community health assessment; offered workplace wellness programs; created a household hazardous waste education program; and created a teen center for youth.

Monies awarded from private or state grants are program specific and must be used for the programs to which they were awarded. The costs of maintaining the RVHCC itself must be raised locally through community support.

With community support we can continue our invaluable work and develop new programs for the residents of the River Valley area.

Patricia Duguay, executive director

River Valley Healthy Communities Coalition, Rumford