A Note from the Executive Director This quarter, Wyoming County Healthcare Center continued to focus on a central goal: improving access to services for the people of Wyoming County. Some of this work is visible, including new exterior signage, facility improvements, community programs, and expanded partner services. Other work is happening through planning conversations, regional meetings, health needs assessment efforts, and partnerships that will help guide future decisions. Together, these efforts reflect WCHC’s role as a place where providers, community organizations, funders, and residents can come together around practical solutions. As healthcare needs continue to change in rural communities, WCHC remains committed to supporting access, strengthening partnerships, and creating a facility that serves the community well today and into the future. Thank you for staying connected and for supporting this work. Executive Director, Wyoming County Healthcare CenterWyoming County Healthcare Centerwww.wycohealthcarecenter.org Rural Health Plan ............................. Regional Connections ..................... Building Readiness .......................... Facility Improvements .................... New Services ..................................... Wellness Fair .................................... Partnerships ...................................... Community Programs ..................... Community Mosaic Mural .............. Stronger EMS .................................... 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 16 17 Inside this Issue Quarterly Community Report Stay Connected: wycohealthcarecenter.org July 2026
Center UpdatesPennsylvania’s Rural Health Transformation Plan focuses on strengthening EMS and transportation, supporting the healthcare workforce, improving access to care, encouraging regional collaboration, and advancing new models of care. These priorities reflect many of the challenges facing rural communities like Wyoming County. Pennsylvania is advancing a Rural Health Transformation Plan to improve access to care in rural communities through coordination, workforce development, and new approaches to service delivery. In Wyoming County, those priorities are already reflected in local efforts. WCHC was created after the loss of local hospital services to bring providers, partners, and community resources together in one location. The plan’s emphasis on EMS and transportation is especially important in rural areas where residents often face long travel times for emergency care. Locally, WCHC has been working with county stakeholders to support planning and coordination around EMS sustainability, recognizing that future funding opportunities may require county-led or regional approaches. WCHC is also working with partners to explore additional ways to strengthen local access to care, including approaches that could expand ambulatory services and reduce the need for residents to travel outside the county. As these efforts continue to take shape, WCHC will remain engaged as a partner — helping align local planning, partnerships, and facility use with the needs of the community.wycohealthcarecenter.org Key Priorities State Plan, Local Impact Rural Health Plan Reflects Local Priorities 2
Regional ConnectionsThroughout the second quarter of 2026, Wyoming County Healthcare Center participated in several state and regional meetings focused on rural healthcare, economic development, workforce challenges, and public policy. These meetings strengthened regional partnerships and provided opportunities to collaborate with healthcare leaders, policymakers, and community organizations working to address shared challenges facing rural communities. In May, WCHC participated in a public hearing hosted by the Center for Rural Pennsylvania examining the Commonwealth's Rural Health Transformation Plan. Additional meetings included Indicators 2026, which explored regional economic, workforce, and demographic trends, the Pennsylvania Chamber Healthcare Summit, which focused on workforce shortages, technology, and healthcare sustainability, and the Northeastern Pennsylvania Rural Health Summit at King's College, where healthcare leaders discussed practical strategies for improving access to care in rural communities. WCHC also participated in the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce Annual Legislative Breakfast, joining business leaders and elected officials to discuss the proposed 2026–27 state budget, workforce development, infrastructure investment, broadband expansion, and other issues affecting Northeastern Pennsylvania. The event included updates from U.S. Congressman Dan Meuser, Senator Lisa Baker, and Representative Tina Pickett, whose ongoing support has helped advance several projects benefiting Wyoming County Healthcare Center and the broader community. Although each meeting addressed different topics, a consistent message emerged: improving healthcare in rural communities requires collaboration, practical planning, sustainable funding, and strong partnerships. Discussions reinforced many of the priorities already guiding WCHC's work, including strengthening emergency medical services, expanding access to ambulatory and community-based care, addressing workforce shortages, improving healthcare infrastructure, and using data to guide future planning. Rural Healthcare Conversations Why This Matters Many of the issues discussed at these meetings directly affect healthcare close to home. Workforce shortages, EMS sustainability, healthcare infrastructure, broadband access, and state and federal funding all influence the services available to Wyoming County residents. By participating in these conversations, WCHC stays informed about emerging opportunities while helping ensure the unique needs of Wyoming County remain part of broader discussions shaping rural healthcare across Pennsylvania. 3 Rural Health Transformation Community-Based Care EMS Sustainability Healthcare Infrastructure Key Topics Discussed Workforce Development Broadband Expansion State & Federal Funding Regional Collaboration Healthcare Focus Supporting Systems
WCHCBuilding Readiness Preparing a facility for future healthcare services involves more than renovating rooms. Before new programs can be added, organizations must evaluate infrastructure, utilities, patient flow, accessibility, technology needs, and available space. Planning efforts at WCHC help ensure the facility can adapt as community needs change while continuing to support existing partners and services. Recent planning discussions have focused on clinical space, shared community areas, building systems, accessibility improvements, and opportunities to accommodate future healthcare and community services. WCHC leadership and operations staff are working with engineers to plan building improvements that will support expanded services and future growth. These sessions focus on how space can be used more effectively, what infrastructure upgrades are needed, and how the facility can continue to support both current partners and new services. This includes evaluatingclinical space, shared areas, and building systems to ensure they function efficiently as demand grows. The goal is to make sure the building keeps pace with the needs of the community and remains a reliable location for providers and services. This type of planning is a critical part of WCHC’s role. As healthcare needs change, the facility must be able to adapt to support providers, improve access, and create space for additional services as community needs continue to evolve. Vol .08 Newsletterwycohealthcarecenter.orgBehind the ScenesPlanning for the Future 4
Facility Improvements Support Visitor Access WCHC completed exterior facility improvements this quarter aimed at making the campus easier to navigate and more welcoming for visitors, patients, and community partners. New exterior entrance signage identifying Entrances A, B, C, and D was installed throughout the property to help residents more easily locate services, programs, and events within the building. The signage was designed and created by Creative Interior Imagery and funded through a grant from the Commonwealth of PA, Broadband Authority. As activity within the facility continues to grow, clear wayfinding helps reduce confusion and supports a more organized experience for the many individuals visiting the campus each week. This is especially important as more residents come to WCHC for appointments, workshops, partner 5 Preserving a Community Resource Wyoming County Healthcare Center continued investing in the long-term preservation and modernization of the former Tyler Memorial Hospital during the second quarter of 2026, completing projects that improve the building's safety, accessibility, and functionality for the thousands of residents who visit the facility each year. One of the most visible improvements includes the ongoing replacement of aging third- and fourth-floor windows by Sterling Glass, helping improve energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and the long-term integrity of the building. In addition, exterior sliding glass entrance doors are scheduled for replacement, building upon previous improvements that included new metal exterior doors installed throughout the facility. Together, these projects create a safer, more welcoming environment for patients, visitors, healthcare providers, and community partners. These improvements are part of WCHC's broader commitment to preserving an important community asset while preparing space for expanded healthcare and community services. Throughout the quarter, additional work included electrical upgrades supporting future dental services, renovations for new healthcare partners, parking lot improvements, and engineering and infrastructure planning that will help position the facility for continued growth. Many of these projects have been made possible through grant funding, including support from the Pennsylvania Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Program, administered by the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority, and the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP). These investments are helping transform the former hospital into a modern healthcare and community services hub while preserving an important resource for future generations. services, community meetings, and outreach programs. The next phase of signage improvements will include ADA-compliant room signage throughout the facility, further supporting accessibility and ease of navigation for residents, patients, visitors, and partner organizations. Together, these improvements help make WCHC easier to access, easier to navigate, and better prepared to serve the growing number of residents and partners using the facility.
CIP Rehabilitation Ribbon Cutting The Wright Center for Community Health will begin providing dental services for children and adults on August 3 from its fourth-floor location at Wyoming County Healthcare Center. Appointments are now being accepted, expanding access to oral healthcare for residents throughout Wyoming County. To schedule, call 570-591- 5299. Crews and partners have spent the quarter preparing the space for patient care, including renovations and facility updates needed to support the new dental program. Once open, the clinic will provide a convenient local option for preventive and restorative dental care, helping reduce the need for residents to travel outside the county for many routine dental services. The addition of dental services builds upon The Wright Center's Dental Services Starting August 3! 6 growing presence at WCHC. In addition to dentistry, The Wright Center already provides primary care, behavioral health services, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and other integrated healthcare services within the facility, making it easier for patients and families to access multiple services in one location. The opening of the dental clinic represents another step in WCHC's ongoing effort to bring more healthcare services closer to home through strong community partnerships. By expanding the range of care available under one roof, residents have greater access to comprehensive healthcare in a convenient, familiar location. Additional information about appointments and available dental services is available through The Wright Center for Community Health. Wyoming County Healthcare Center recently joined CIP Rehabilitation in celebrating the ribbon cutting of its newly expanded space at WCHC. The expansion strengthens access to rehabilitation services in Wyoming County, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. The addition of speech therapy is especially important, as it provides a much-needed local option for children and adults who may otherwise have to travel outside the county for care. The new space also includes a dedicated pediatric area, allowing CIP to better serve children and families in a setting designed to support their needs. In addition to services offered at WCHC, CIP also provides therapy in people’s homes, helping reach patients who may face transportation challenges or need care in a familiar setting. CIP Rehabilitation’s continued growth demonstates the increasing demand for local services and the value of having care available close to home. The ribbon cutting marked an important milestone for CIP and for the broader WCHC model, showing how partnerships can grow to meet the changing needs of the community.
From healthcare and wellness to family fun and community connections, the Community Wellness Fair offers something for everyone. Join Wyoming County Healthcare Center on Thursday, August 13, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. for this free evening celebrating the organizations, services, and people working together to make Wyoming County a healthier place to live. Made possible in part through funding from the Wyoming County Room Tax Fund, administered by the Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau, and support from the Wyoming County United Way, this year's Wellness Fair will bring together healthcare providers, nonprofit organizations, community agencies, and local businesses for an evening of education, activities, and community engagement. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet representatives from organizations serving Wyoming County, learn about local programs and services, ask questions, and discover resources they may not have known were available. Whether you're looking for healthcare information, family support services, educational opportunities, or ways to become more involved in the community, the Wellness Fair makes it easy to connect with local organizations in one convenient location. This year's event will feature a variety of family-friendly activities, including a dunk tank, interactive exhibits, games, giveaways, and hands-on activities for children and adults. It's an opportunity to learn something new, spend time with family and friends, and experience the many resources available throughout the county in a fun and welcoming atmosphere. The Community Wellness Fair aligns with WCHC's mission of bringing organizations together to improve access to healthcare and community services while strengthening partnerships throughout Wyoming County. By connecting residents with local resources and encouraging collaboration among participating organizations, the event helps build a healthier, more connected community. Thursday, August 13 | 4:00–7:00 PM Wyoming County Healthcare Center 5950 US 6, Tunkhannock, Pa 18657 Free admission • Dunk tank • Family activities Community resources • Giveaways Community Wellness Fair 7 Community Wellness Fair Returns August 13
8 Tours Build Awareness and Connections Throughout the quarter, Wyoming County Healthcare Center opened its doors to a range of visitors to tour the facility, providing opportunities to better understand local healthcare services, community needs, and the role WCHC plays in improving access to care. Student groups, including participants from Tiger House in partnership with the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR), visited WCHC to explore potential career pathways and gain exposure to healthcare services in a rural setting. A separate student group also participated in CPR training during their visit, offering a hands-on learning experience and valuable life-saving skills. WCHC also hosted representatives from Telespond, Northeast Sight Services, and regional funders including Moses Taylor Foundation and the Scranton Area Community Foundation. These visits helped strengthen partnerships, introduce organizations to the facility, and share how collaboration can expand access to services in the community. In addition, representatives from Senator John Fetterman’s office toured the facility to learn more about the challenges and opportunities facing rural healthcare and the work underway to improve access to care in Wyoming County. Each visit helps build a clearer understanding of WCHC’s role in the community while opening the door for future collaboration. Whether visitors are students exploring careers, partner organizations learning about available space, or public officials seeing rural healthcare challenges firsthand, tours help connect people to the work happening inside the facility. Many of the programs and initiatives featured throughout this newsletter are the result of partnerships that extend well beyond the walls of Wyoming County Healthcare Center. Throughout the quarter, WCHC staff participated in several county and regional collaborative groups focused on improving health, safety, education, and quality of life for Wyoming County residents. These collaborations include participation in the Safe Kids NEPA, Hope Coalition, the Community Awareness Group coordinated by the Wyoming County District Attorney's Office, and other community partnerships that bring together healthcare providers, educators, emergency responders, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies to address shared challenges. By participating in these collaborative efforts, WCHC helps strengthen communication among organizations, identify emerging community needs, and create opportunities for joint programs that make better use of limited resources. Many of the workshops, health initiatives, educational events, and outreach programs highlighted throughout this newsletter have been strengthened through these relationships. Whether coordinating emergency preparedness, promoting injury prevention, expanding health education, or supporting families, collaboration continues to play an important role in helping organizations accomplish more together than any one organization could achieve alone. Working Together for Wyoming County
9 Interagency Council Improves Impact When organizations work together, communities benefit. That is the purpose of the Wyoming County Interagency Council, which brings together nonprofits, healthcare providers, schools, government agencies, emergency services, businesses, and community organizations to share information, identify common needs, and strengthen collaboration throughout Wyoming County. Recognizing the value of these connections, Wyoming County Healthcare Center reconvened the Interagency Council and now hosts quarterly meetings to help organizations stay informed about one another's programs, services, and upcoming initiatives. More than 50 organizations have been invited to participate, creating opportunities to build relationships, reduce duplication of effort, and identify ways to work together to better serve residents. The Council has already helped strengthen communication among local organizations while creating new opportunities for collaboration on community education programs, health initiatives, outreach events, and resource sharing. By bringing partners together on a regular basis, organizations are better equipped to connect residents with available services and maximize the impact of limited community resources. Quarterly meetings are scheduled throughout the year, with the next sessions planned for July 7 and October 6. As participation continues to grow, the Interagency Council is helping build a stronger network of organizations that can share information, coordinate efforts, and better connect residents with available services. A clear understanding of local health needs is essential for making informed decisions about future services, programs, and investments in Wyoming County. This quarter, work began on a countywide Health Needs Assessment designed to better understand the healthcare needs, challenges, and priorities of local residents. Supported through grants from the Moses Taylor Foundation and AllOne Charities, the assessment includes research and data analysis support provided by The Institute. The project includes community outreach, data collection, and analysis designed to create a clearer picture of local health needs and priorities. The Institute brings research expertise to the process, helping ensure that the assessment is grounded in data as well as community input. By examining resident experiences, service gaps, and broader health- related trends, the assessment can help identify where needs are greatest and where additional services, resources, or partnerships may have the most impact. This work is especially important in a rural county where access to care can be affected by transportation, provider availability, service location, cost, emergency response capacity, and other barriers. The findings will help healthcare providers, community organizations, funders, and local leaders better understand the needs of residents and make more informed decisions about how to strengthen services in Wyoming County. For WCHC, the assessment will also provide valuable guidance as the organization considers future partnerships, programs, and service models, including efforts related to emergency medical services and other access-to-care priorities. Assessing Community Health Needs
Community Programs Vol. 08 Newsletter Wyoming County Healthcare Center is pleased to announce the launch of a new monthly Memory Café program led by Jen Franza of CIP Rehabilitation. The free program will be held on the second Thursday of each month from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and is open to caregivers and their loved ones experiencing memory loss, dementia, or other cognitive challenges. The program is supported through funding from AllOne Charities, allowing WCHC to offer the Memory Café at no cost to participants. This support helps reduce barriers for families while expanding access to community- based wellness programs close to home. A Memory Café is a welcoming social gathering designed to reduce isolation and create opportunities for meaningful connection in a supportive environment. Participants can enjoy conversation, activities, and time together in a relaxed and judgment-free setting. Sessions may feature music, crafts, storytelling, games, seasonal themes, and light refreshments, helping create an enjoyable experience for both caregivers and their loved ones. The program is designed to focus on connection rather than diagnosis, giving families a chance to spend meaningful time together outside of the more clinical side of care. The Memory Café offers families a regular place to feel understood, supported, and welcomed while spending meaningful time together. Memory Café 10 Speaker Series Continues Veterans are invited to connect over coffee, conversation, and camaraderie through Java for Joes, a free monthly gathering hosted by Wyoming County Healthcare Center in partnership with PA CareerLink®. Held on the first Thursday of each month from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., the program provides a welcoming place for veterans to build friendships, learn about community resources, and connect with others who share similar experiences. Veterans of all ages and branches of service are welcome to attend. Wyoming County Healthcare Center's Community Speaker Series continues to bring local professionals and partner organizations together for free educational programs that provide practical information for individuals and families. Supported through funding from the Wyoming County Community Health Foundation, upcoming presentations include Navigating Pregnancy with Elizabeth Mason of Healthy Family Partnership, Beneficiary Planning presented by Edmund Brogenski and Greg Jones from M&T Bank, and Calm School Mornings with Diane Ogin of Pathway to Peace & Wellness. Each session is designed to provide useful information, encourage discussion, and connect residents with local resources. Learn more or register: bit.ly/WCHCSpeakerSeries Java for Joes
Scams are becoming harder to spot, and they can happen to anyone. That is why Wyoming County Healthcare Center is hosting a free Fraud and Scam Awareness Workshop on Thursday, July 16, presented by Peoples Security Bank & Trust. The workshop will be offered at two convenient times: 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Residents are encouraged to attend the session that works best for them and bring a friend, neighbor, or family member. Fraud Awareness Workshop Participants will learn how to recognize common scams, protect personal and financial information, and respond if something seems suspicious. The session is designed to be practical, easy to understand, and useful for people of all ages. A little knowledge can help prevent a costly mistake. Community members are encouraged to attend, ask questions, and share what they learn with others. 11Wyoming County Healthcare Center is launching Mindful Miles this July at Vosburg Neck State Park, a free summer program for students ages 8–12 that combines guided hiking, physical activity, and emotional regulation strategies. Each Wednesday in July, students will walk a different trail while learning a practical coping skill they can use beyond the program. On July 8, Gerri Simmers will lead yoga on the Canal Trail, helping students use movement and breathing to calm the body and improve focus. On July 15, Amanda Kiernan will guide a nature-based session on the Whitetail Trail, encouraging students to slow down, observe their surroundings, and build connection with the outdoors. The July 22 session on the River Trail will feature journaling with Richard Quanstrom, giving students a healthy way to process thoughts and feelings. The Mindful Miles Supports Student Mental Healthprogram will conclude on July 29 with art on the Summit Loop led by Debra Lee, using creative expression as another tool for reflection and stress relief. Each session will run from 9:00 to 10:30 AM and will be led in partnership with the Vosburg Neck State Park team. Participants will receive a backpack with materials tied to that week’s activity, such as a yoga mat, journal, or art supplies, so they can continue practicing these strategies at home. Mindful Miles is made possible through the generous support of Matt and Nicole Shaffer and a grant from the Tunkhannock United Way. Space is limited and registration is required: https://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/mindful-miles-9358
Hosted by WCHC student assistant Aidan, the podcast creates a welcoming and conversational space where guests can share their experiences, expertise, and commitment to serving the region. The series also gives Aidan an opportunity to build communication skills while helping listeners better understand the people and services available close to home. This quarter, Clint Gregory from WPEL joined Aidan for a conversation about podcasting, local broadcasting, and the skills involved in creating meaningful interviews. The episode offered a behind-the-scenes look at how communityWCHC continued to expand community engagement and student learning this quarter through the Health Matters podcast, a series designed to connect residents with local organizations, services, and conversations that impact everyday life in rural communities. Health Matters Highlights Local Voices media can inform, connect, and engage rural audiences while also helping Aidan continue to grow as a student host. Erin Wiernusz from Work Well Occupational Services joined the podcast to discuss workplace health, injury prevention, and the importance of supporting employee wellness. The episode explored how occupational health services can help both employers and workers maintain safer and healthier environments. In another episode, Aidan sat down with Amy and Amanda from DaVita to discuss kidney health, dialysis services, and the relationships built between care teams and patients. The interview also highlighted their recent awards recognizing the care and dedication they bring to their work, offering listeners a meaningful look at the people behind local dialysis services. By highlighting local voices, the Health Matters podcast helps residents better understand the people, services, and partnerships available close to home. It also gives Aidan a meaningful opportunity to build interview skills while helping share stories from the organizations and individuals serving the community. Music, Wellness, and Community Connection After recording an episode of the Health Matters podcast, WCHC student assistant Aidan stopped by Pathway to Peace & Wellness to learn more about the drums used during the Cancer and Healing workshop series. Aidan was joined by Diane Ogin and Steve, his job coach, for a hands-on look at the instruments and the role music can play in connection, relaxation, and emotional well-being. The visit was a small but meaningful example of the relationships being built throughout the WCHC facility. The drums were used as part of WCHC’s Cancer and Healing workshop series, which offered creative wellness activities designed to support healing, self-expression, and community connection. Workshops throughout the quarter included activities such as creative movement and drum circles, giving participants opportunities to explore wellness in a supportive and welcoming environment. Moments like this illustrate the collaborative spirit of WCHC’s partners and programs, where education, wellness, and community connection often come together in simple, personal ways. 12
Practical Planning for Families During Emergencies Unexpected events are easier to face when families know where their important information is, what steps to take, and who to call for help. This quarter, WCHC brought residents together for three emergency preparedness workshops to help community members plan ahead with more confidence. All sessions featured Ralph Swartz of the Wyoming County Emergency Management Agency and Bob Brown of Stonehouse Investment Management. Swartz discussed local emergency response and the importance of having a plan before an emergency occurs. Brown focused on financial preparedness and shared Stonehouse’s Life Stack organizational system, which helps households organize important documents and information before they are needed. The February 24 workshop was sponsored by Stonehouse Investment Management, and the April 22 workshop was sponsored by Guthrie Tunkhannock. Attendees received practical information and “go bags” with items such as a first aid kit, toothbrush kit, notepad, flashlight, pill box, and device charger. Together, the workshops made clear a simple message: preparedness is not just about emergencies. It is about planning, organization, and having tools in place so families can respond more effectively when circumstances change. Programs like this reflect WCHC’s commitment to offering practical, community-based education that supports individual and family well-being. By partnering with local organizations, WCHC continues to help residents access information and resources that are useful before, during, and after moments of need. Community Clean Up In recognition of Earth Day, staff from the Wyoming County Healthcare Center and The Wright Center came together for a joint cleanup effort around the facility, reinforcing a shared commitment to the health and well-being of the community. Employees from both organizations volunteered their time to collect litter and improve the appearance of the grounds, focusing on areas surrounding the building and nearby spaces. The effort helped create a cleaner, more welcoming environment for patients, partners, visitors, and staff. The cleanup also reflected the everyday partnership between WCHC and The Wright Center. In addition to providing services within the building, both organizations share a commitment to maintaining a facility that feels cared for and accessible to the community. Small efforts like this help make a visible difference and support a campus environment that is cleaner, safer, and more welcoming for everyone who visits. 13
14 Students Reset and Return to Learning This school year, students in grades K–2 at Elk Lake School District benefited from Calm Down Corners and Wellness Classroom instruction made possible through the Recharge Grant, funded by AllOne Charities and implemented through a partnership between Wyoming County Healthcare Center, Pathway to Peace & Wellness, and Elk Lake School District. Twenty-two emotional support spaces—including 20 classroom Calm Down Corners and two counselor spaces—gave students safe, structured environments to recognize emotions, practice coping strategies, and regain focus. Throughout the year, most classrooms reported using the spaces three to five times each week or daily, while the counselor spaces were used every day. Teachers observed that students increasingly recognized when they needed a break and often used the Calm Down Corners independently before behaviors escalated. After taking time to reset, students were able to return to the classroom more quickly and re-engage in learning. Staff also reported improvements in emotional awareness, coping strategies, peer relationships, and overall classroom climate. The Calm Down Corners were reinforced through Wellness Classroom lessons focused on emotional awareness, empathy, conflict resolution, executive functioning, and self-regulation skills. Pathway to Peace & Wellness also worked with families through parent workshops, helping caregivers understand and use similar emotional regulation strategies at home. Together, the school-based tools and family education helped students practice these skills more consistently throughout the day. While formal year-end behavioral data are still being compiled, teachers consistently reported calmer classrooms, fewer disruptions, and greater student independence. Individual student stories also showed meaningful growth, including stronger classroom participation, improved social interaction, and increased confidence using coping skills.Luna uses one of the Calm Down Corners created through the Recharge Grant to practice self-regulation skills in a supportive classroom environment. Supporting the Local Blood Supply The Wyoming County Healthcare Center hosted its latest community blood drive on June 16 in partnership with Miller-Keystone Blood Center, continuing an ongoing effort to make blood donation more accessible for local residents. Held in the rear parking lot, the drive provided a convenient location for donors to give back, building on previous events hosted at WCHC. The June drive also saw repeat participation from community members, reflecting growing awareness and ongoing support for local blood donation efforts. Miller-Keystone Blood Center provided the mobile donation unit and professional staff, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience for donors throughout the day. Mey & Sulla Law continued their support of the blood drive by providing meals for donors, helping create a welcoming and community-centered experience. Every donation has the potential to help patients receiving cancer treatment, recovering from surgery, experiencing trauma, or facing other medical emergencies. Community members are invited to participate in WCHC's next blood drive on Tuesday, September 8, from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. in the rear parking lot. Appointments can be scheduled at https://donor.giveapint.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/90913.
Student Art Showcases Local Talent The Wyoming County Healthcare Center welcomed students back for the second round of its Student Art Initiative this spring, with approximately 30 students participating in the program. Students from local schools, as well as homeschool and cyber school settings, were invited to participate, expanding the initiative’s reach across the community. WCHC provided each student with a canvas while allowing participants the freedom to choose the style and medium of artwork they created. The program gives students a chance to express ideas creatively while connecting student work to meaningful, real-world themes. For this round, students explored the theme “Past, Present, and Future Careers,” prompting them to reflect on how work has evolved and to consider their own future paths. The artwork is currently on display on the first floor of the Wyoming County Healthcare Center, where visitors can view the student submissions ahead of the public gallery reception scheduled for July 21 from 6:00 - 7:00 PM. The reception will give students and families an opportunity to celebrate the work on display while inviting the broader community to see the creativity and perspective of young artists from across the county. The initiative also supports early exposure to career pathways in a rural community where workforce development remains an ongoing priority. Artist: Kallie Gavek Artist: Jaylin Mckennas 15 Cancer Screening Workshop Wyoming County Healthcare Center recently hosted a cancer screening workshop presented by Debra Buck of the Northeast Regional Cancer Institute (NRCI), providing community members with important information about early detection and access to screening services. The session focused on the importance of routine cancer screenings, particularly for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer. These screenings are often the first step in identifying cancer early, when treatment is more effective and outcomes are improved. Through NRCI’s Community-Based Cancer Screening Navigation Program, individuals can receive guidance on scheduling screenings, understanding eligibility, and overcoming barriers such as cost, transportation, or lack of insurance. The program is designed to support individuals who are uninsured or underinsured, helping ensure that access to preventive care is not limited by financial or logistical challenges. Participants learned how to stay up to date on recommended screenings and where to go locally for services. The workshop also highlighted the role of patient navigation, which helps individuals move through the screening process and connect with follow-up care if needed. Programs like this supports WCHC’s commitment to connecting residents with resources that support prevention, early detection, and overall community health.
More than 200 local residents came together through the Wyoming County Healthcare Center's Community Mosaic Mural Project, developed in partnership with CEO People Helping People, to create a lasting tribute to America's 250th birthday. The patriotic mosaic mural is made up of individually painted aluminum tiles. Once assembled, the tiles will form one unified image that reflects national history, local pride, and the shared effort of the Wyoming County community. The project has now moved into its next phase with the selection of a permanent installation site. The completed mural will be displayed on the exterior wall of the Tunkhannock Area School District Administration Building, where it will remain visible to residents and visitors. Community involvement has been central to the project from the beginning. CEO People Helping People coordinated public painting opportunities, giving residents across Wyoming County the chance to contribute to the finished mural. The community is invited to attend the official unveiling on September 25 at 4:00 PM at the Tunkhannock Area School District Administration Building. Thank You to Our Sponsors This project was made possible through the support of local businesses, organizations, and individuals who helped turn a community idea into a lasting public display. Patriot Sponsors: Peoples Security Bank & Trust; Stone Hedge Golf Course; Matt and Nicole Shaffer; Joe Peters; CEO People Helping People; Guthrie Tunkhannock Liberty Sponsors: Ed & Sarah Rhinard; A. Pickett Construction Community Sponsors: Amber Franko; Mary Scarpa; The Wright Center; Tunkhannock Beverage; Tunkhannock Rotary Club; Rick Wilbur, Tom Henry and Ernie King; Tunkhannock Business & Professional Women; American Legion Auxiliary Post 510, Kiwanis Club of Tunkhannock Freedom Sponsors/In-Kind Donors: Dietrich Theater; Tunkhannock Area School District, Wyoming County Healthcare Center Interactive Experience The America 250 PA Mobile Unit visited Wyoming County Healthcare Center on May 8, giving residents an interactive way to explore Pennsylvania’s role in the nation’s founding. Visitors experienced hands- on displays focused on key people, places, and moments in American history. Event Highlights Interactive exhibits for all ages Focus on Pennsylvania’s role in America’s founding Part of the statewide America 250 celebration Preview of future community programming tied to the semiquincentennial The event welcomed residents, students, and families for an accessible history experience right here in Wyoming County. Learn more: america250pa.org/Mobile_ Unit Interactive Experience Community Mural Takes Shape 16
Why it MattersRepresentatives from every Wyoming County-based ambulance agency have continued meeting this year to explore practical solutions that strengthen emergency response while preserving the local services their communities depend on. Through regional collaboration, agencies are examining opportunities to improve coordination and support the long-term sustainability of rural EMS. Current discussions include staffing needs, funding, operational coordination, expanding training capacity, and shared administrative opportunities that could reduce overhead costs while allowing agencies to focus more resources on patient care. Emergency medical services are often the first point of care during a medical emergency. In rural communities like Wyoming County, longer travel distances to hospitals make reliable local EMS especially important. The need for EMS is determined by geography as much as population. Seven local ambulance agencies serve 28 municipalities across approximately 405 square miles. Wyoming County's rural landscape, spread-out communities, and longer travel distances mean local ambulance services must be available across the county to respond when emergencies happen. A strong EMS system also depends on readiness. Ambulance agencies must have trained personnel, equipment, vehicles, insurance, supplies, and facilities in place before an emergency call ever comes in. That readiness has a cost, even during the hours between calls, yet it is essential to ensuring help is available when an emergency occurs.PLANNING FOR A STRONGER EMS EMS Challenges in Rural Communities Wyoming County is not alone. Rural EMS agencies across Pennsylvania are facing many of the same challenges, including: Recruiting and retaining EMTs and paramedics Covering the cost of readiness between emergency calls Rising operating and equipment costs Longer transport times to hospitals Limited reimbursement from Medicare and Medicaid Declining volunteer participation Every Wyoming County-based ambulance agency is participating in these collaborative discussions, demonstrating a shared commitment to strengthening emergency medical services for everyone who lives, works, and travels throughout Wyoming County. 17