The Rural Monitor
Articles by Topic: Community and economic development
June 12, 2024
While loneliness and social isolation are often viewed as individual problems or even personal failings, there is growing awareness of the structural factors contributing to widespread disconnection. Amid a national "loneliness epidemic," some rural leaders are finding ways to help their neighbors connect.
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May 15, 2024
Thrive Allen County, a Kansas nonprofit, brings grant money into its community and helps other entities build capacity through grant writing, technical assistance, and other services. Since 2019, the nonprofit has brought over $28 million into its rural community and its work has led to hiking and biking trails, a state park, new grocery stores, and much more.
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April 24, 2024
A growing number of rural hospital leaders are beginning to view their infrastructure, purchasing, and investment strategies as crucial extensions of their efforts to improve community health — and, in the long term, bolster their bottom line.
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January 24, 2024
Produce prescription programs have gained popularity in recent years as a model for addressing food insecurity and diet-related disease. While such programs are still uncommon in rural areas, those that do exist report wide-ranging impacts on participants and local food systems.
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December 13, 2023
As the pandemic receded, many rural healthcare providers began to feel the acute effects of another crisis impacting communities across the country: a severe local housing shortage. In response, some organizations are forming unique partnerships and implementing creative solutions.
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February 10, 2021
Graham Adams, PhD, Chief Executive Officer of the South Carolina Office of Rural Health (SCORH), shares how his office is responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and addressing social determinants of health like employment.
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December 9, 2020
Study after study underscores transportation as a major barrier to rural healthcare access. With the support of federal funding, a project director shares how Rides to Health and Wealth is emerging as a solution in eastern Missouri — despite COVID-19.
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December 4, 2019
Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) can offer flexible financing options, but many operate at full capacity and there is a general lack of awareness of these institutions in rural spaces. Foundation and CDFI leaders share their perspectives about the difference CDFIs can make on rural health outcomes.
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August 22, 2018
USDA Assistant to the Secretary for Rural Development Anne Hazlett shares perspectives on healthcare needs and healthcare delivery challenges from information gained as she travels rural America.
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