According to Feeding America, Wolfe County is amongst the leading counties in the state of Kentucky for food insecurity. In addition, Wolfe County residents report having significantly poor health and access to health care. To address this ongoing issue, the Wolfe County Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences, Alyssa Cox, partnered with the UK Center of Excellence in Rural Health, Kentucky Homeplace, and the Wolfe County Health Department to host the Appalachian Community Health Days at the Hazel Green Fire Station #2 monthly food distribution.

At the Appalachian Community Health Days, the Hazel Green Fire Station #2 offered free food and produce to all participants. The Wolfe County Health Department offered free COVID-19 vaccination, and Kentucky Homeplace offered free health screenings and medical supplies. The Wolfe County Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences offered physical activity education and free incentives.

Around 300 vehicles were present for the drive-through event. A total of 37 people completed the physical activity challenge offered by the Family and Consumer Sciences Agent and learned how to incorporate movement into their unique routine. Numerous others received a life-saving vaccination to protect them against the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, in addition to a significant supply of groceries.

Many participants indicated how grateful they were for the opportunity to address so many of their needs in one place. This partnership and program will be continued at the Senior Commodity Distribution in October at the Wolfe County Extension Office.