Uniting to Support a Community in Crisis
West Virginia Health Right opened our CommUNITY Wellness Center last year with the goal of creating a healthy hub for Charleston’s medically underserved West Side. We were proud to start offering so many free, innovative programs, focused on addressing root causes of health inequity, including a fitness room, a teaching kitchen, a closet with clothing for job interviews, and more.
And yet, we had no idea just how impactful the CommUNITY Wellness Center could be during a crisis. Then, 1,100 residents of the West Side lost access to heat and water last month.
During a weeks-long outage, the CommUNITY Wellness Center became a hub for distributing heaters, blankets, electric cooktops, crock pots, water and non-perishable food. We also used the space to repeatedly cook dinner for hundreds of West Virginians.
Thanks to Governor Jim Justice’s quick State of Emergency declaration, the assistance of The West Virginia National Guard, and the support of more than a dozen community organizations, we were able to work together to make sure our neighbors’ basic needs were met throughout the crisis. We were proud to watch the CommUNITY Wellness Center truly lived up to its name–unifying us all through our shared goal of serving the community.
To date we’ve provided:
3501 Meals
760 Heaters
557 Cooking Appliances
620 Electric Blankets
102 Regular Blankets
153 Socks, Gloves, and Hats
Donations are still needed to help our West Side neighbors recover. Can we count on your support?
Angie Settle, CEO, Accepts Urbanite Game Changer Award on Behalf of WV Health Right
Last month, our team was honored to receive an Urbanite Game Changer Award from Charleston Urban Works (formerly Charleston Main Streets) and to celebrate alongside nearly 200 other dedicated members of our community. The celebration, which took place at the Woman’s Club of Charleston, was a night to remember as we continue our efforts to foster a healthier community for all.
CPR Champions: WV Health Right Staff Trained to Save Lives
Every day, WV Health Right’s team shows up ready to help improve—and often save—lives. In early November, our entire clinical and dental staff furthered this commitment by coming together to complete their CPR training. No matter the circumstances, we’re determined to make sure our team is fully prepared to assist those who need us, when they need us.
A Holiday Meal with Heart
WV Health Right’s Chef Keaton worked his magic in the kitchen this Thanksgiving, crafting delicious meals with love to distribute to our community. His culinary talent and generosity brought warmth and nourishment to many, embodying the spirit of giving that has always been central to our mission.
Join Us in the Fight Against Lung Cancer
Did you know that, across the world, lung cancer is the leading cause of all cancer-related deaths?
Although November was Lung Cancer Awareness Month, this widespread disease is something we take seriously at WV Health Right each day. From smoking cessation groups to preventative care, we offer a range of services aimed at supporting our community in the fight against lung cancer. If you’re concerned that you (or someone you know) may be at risk for lung cancer, we’re here to help.
