Farm Credit CCF Grant Helps Cultivate Healthier Lives in Mineral County
Charitable Contributions Fund
In the heart of Keyser, W. Va., Potomac Valley Hospital (PVH) is making a meaningful impact on community health—thanks in part to a $9,250 grant from the Farm Credit of Virginias Charitable Contributions Fund. This funding supported the hospital’s innovative West Virginia FARMacy program, a 15-week initiative designed to promote healthier lifestyles through better nutrition.
A Prescription for Fresh Food and Wellness
The Farmacy program, led by PVH’s Preventive Medicine Department, focused on individuals with chronic conditions worsened by poor dietary habits. With the help of the grant, additional funds from PVH and a contribution from a local farm, the program provided 30 participants with weekly access to fresh, nutritious food, valued at $25 per person per week.
Additionally, participants received recipe booklets to encourage continued healthy eating at home and had the opportunity to participate in a variety of hands-on activities, including:
• Supermarket tours with guidance on healthy food choices
• Visits to farmers markets and community gardens
• Classes to learn how to store, clean and cook the fresh ingredients
Measurable Health Improvements
Throughout the program, PVH clinical staff tracked key health indicators such as weight, blood pressure, cholesterol and A1C levels. The results were promising:
• Healthy blood pressure readings increased from 15% to 18%
• Healthy cholesterol levels rose from 70% to 86%
• Healthy A1C readings improved from 36% to 56%
These outcomes demonstrate the tangible benefits of combining nutrition education with access to fresh food.
Addressing More Than Just Diet
Recognizing that health is influenced by more than just food, the FARMacy program also connected participants with local resources to address social determinants of health, including transportation, housing and caregiving needs.
A Model for Rural Health Innovation
The success of the West Virginia FARMacy program highlights the power of community partnerships and targeted funding. With support from Farm Credit of the Virginias, PVH has not only improved individual health outcomes but also strengthened the fabric of the local community.
Learn more about FARMacy WV: https://farmacywv.com/