Virginia State Office of Rural Health

08/27/2026

Black Breastfeeding Week runs every year from August 25–31, and it started back in 2014 thanks to Black leaders who wanted to make sure these families were seen and supported. The week was created because Black moms often face higher infant mortality rates, fewer Black lactation professionals, and cultural barriers that make breastfeeding harder than it should be.

For those in rural communities, where resources can already be limited, this week is a reminder that support matters. When we show up for Black mothers with encouragement, education, and real help, we strengthen the health of our whole community.

Let’s keep lifting each other up.

08/26/2026

Back‑to‑school season is here!
Fuel your days with whole, nutrient‑dense foods like veggies, fruits, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains.

Quick tips for busy weeks:
Add colorful veggies to meals for extra nutrients.
Drink water instead of sugary beverages.
Choose lower‑sodium options when shopping.
Boost fiber with whole‑grain breakfasts and fresh fruit.
Healthy habits = healthy minds.

Resources:
https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/features/healthy-eating-tips.html
https://publichealthcollaborative.org/resources/understanding-ultra-processed-foods/
https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/php/resources/index.html -communication

08/25/2026

Celebrating our Rural Community Health Workers this week! Thank you for the vital support you provide to our communities across rural Virginia.

08/13/2026

Health Care Professionals - Your Next Opportunity Awaits!
Wed, Aug 26, 6–9 p.m. ET, FREE HRSA Virtual Job Fair

Connect with 30+ hiring sites across 19 states, rural and urban, offering competitive benefits and meaningful career paths.

Now recruiting: Physicians • PAs • Dentists • NPs • RNs • CNMs • Behavioral Health Providers

Jump in, explore openings, and meet employers who need your skills. Your next chapter could start here.

Register Now: https://events.zoomgov.com/ev/AjrhyOpfAWduhePQ0-oqzBfry1CGfr7PAqJHo4QkZ67F1CGMNv-o~Ahn1NQK7QxyHVuC7UHCRseg2Kq1LgP9uUxm0H98w9-15piScavcBq9bvbQ

08/12/2026

Registration is open for the 2026 Catalyst Annual Summit!
October 13, 2026, 9 AM–3:30 PM at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture in Richmond.

Networking starts at 8:30 AM.
Early bird rates through Sept. 1: $89 students / $199 professionals.
Space is limited, secure your spot today!
Register today: https://vahealthcatalyst.org/2026-summit

08/11/2026

Rural communities play a vital role in strengthening maternity health by ensuring families have access to compassionate, reliable care close to home. Highlighting the unique challenges faced in rural areas, such as limited providers and long travel distances, helps underscore the importance of expanding services, supporting local clinics, and promoting breastfeeding resources that empower families. By uplifting rural maternity care, we reinforce healthier beginnings for parents and babies across every corner of Virginia.

During Breastfeeding Awareness Month, VDH wants to share information about how to best support moms.

Learn more about the importance of breastfeeding and how you can find support at https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/breastfeeding/

08/10/2026

August is Children’s Eye Health & Safety Month!
Healthy vision helps kids learn, play, and thrive. Regular eye exams, limited screen time, outdoor play, enough sleep and proper eye protection all make a big difference.

Common childhood vision issues like refractive errors, amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (crossed eyes), and convergence insufficiency can affect learning, confidence, and behavior, but with early care, children can thrive.

Let’s keep our kids’ eyes safe and strong, early care supports brighter futures.
Resources: https://www.cdc.gov/vision-health/prevention/youth-vision-problems.html

08/05/2026

We’re excited to see the Bath Community Hospital's Food is Medicine program featured in the news!

The Virginia State Office of Rural Health was proud to support this important initiative and the work being done to strengthen health and well-being in Virginia’s rural communities.

If a subscriber, read the full story from The Recorder here: Food is Medicine initiative promotes healthier habits https://www.therecorderonline.com/articles/food-is-medicine-initiative-promotes-healthier-habits/

Bath Community Hospital recently concluded its Food Is Medicine initiative, a community-focused program designed to make healthy eating more accessible, practical, and engaging for people of all ages. HOT SPRINGS — Bath Community Hospital recently concluded its Food Is Medicine initiative, a commu...

08/04/2026

Celebrating National Farmers Market Week!

This week, we honor the hardworking rural farmers who nourish our communities and keep our tables full of fresh, local produce. From sunrise harvests to weekend market stalls, their dedication connects us to the land and reminds us of the power of community-grown food.

Farmers Markets don’t just offer delicious fruits and vegetables, they increase access to nutritious food, support local economies, and strengthen the bond between growers and neighbors.

Let’s celebrate by visiting your local market, thanking a farmer, and sharing the bounty with friends and family. Every purchase helps sustain the people who make healthy living possible.

Support local. Eat fresh.

08/03/2026

August Photo of the Month
Summer’s tranquility flows through Virginia’s rivers! We’re proud to feature this peaceful scene captured by Katherine Schroeder of Frederick County, Virginia.

Thank you, Katherine, for sharing the serene beauty and enduring spirit of rural Virginia through your lens. 🌿 We’re honored to showcase the places and people that make our rural communities so special.

Please visit our website to see the calendar and explore more stunning photographs: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/.../state-office-of-rural.../