Rural Health
News by Topic: Community and faith-based initiatives
May 12, 2026 - The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Heartland Forward, a nonprofit organization focused on driving economic growth and stronger communities, particularly in rural and underserved areas. HHS and Heartland Forward will collaborate on initiatives to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality and strengthen care before, during, and after pregnancy.
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Apr 29, 2026 - Describes rural disparities in suicide rates and work one rural Utah community is doing to connect residents and students in crisis with mental health care and resources.
Source: Fox 13
Apr 20, 2026 - Describes the role a summer meal program plays in ensuring food access for rural Alaskan children in communities with no dedicated food banks. Notes that applications for eligible children is now open.
Source: Alaska Public Media
Apr 17, 2026 - Notice of final rule from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) correcting the March 24, 2024, final rule that made changes to regulations to clarify protections for beneficiaries and prospective beneficiaries of federally funded social services and the rights and obligations of organizations providing such services. This correction will specifically state that the rule is intended to cover recipients and subrecipients of USDA domestic social service programs to which USDA uniform administrative requirements for recipients applies. This rule is effective May 18, 2026.
Source: Federal Register
Apr 15, 2026 - The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) and the Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan announced a new grant to strengthen food sovereignty and safety in tribal communities across the state over the next 4 years. The project will improve communities' access to nourishing, locally-grown foods and support community-driven food safety training and infrastructure projects.
Source: Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development
Mar 30, 2026 - Describes the problems older adults in rural Ohio face in accessing food pantry programs they are eligible for due to transportation and mobility challenges. Notes proposed legislation that would assist food pantries with expanding food delivery services into more rural parts of their service area.
Source: The Ohio Newsroom
Mar 27, 2026 - Discusses food insecurity in South Dakota and efforts by some South Dakota-born members of the Pittsburgh Steelers to raise awareness and money for a local nonprofit. Discusses the particular challenges for a rural and native communities.
Source: KOTA
Mar 26, 2026 - Interviews the Deputy Director of Rural LISC, discussing her career path, access and infrastructure challenges for rural communities, engaging with communities, projects at LISC, and leadership tips.
Source: Rural LISC
Mar 25, 2026 - Highlights a rural Ohio nonprofit that supports area residents with medical expenses by covering other needs such as home modifications, transportation, and more. Discusses the costs of healthcare alongside other common living expenses.
Source: The Ohio Newsroom
Mar 25, 2026 - Highlights work in New Hampshire, Colorado, and Maine to turn public places into gathering spaces that support community needs, promote wellness and accessibility, social programs, and more.
Source: AARP