In the heart of Vanceburg, the story of the Lewis County Health Department stands as a Testament to the community's vision and dedication.  It's a story that weaves together our history, our services, and the vibrant spirit of Lewis County.  

In April 1958, a pivotal moment in our county's health trajectory took place.  Thanks to the foresight of H.M. Bertram, Sr., Flossie Bertram, Elwood Esham, and Ruth Esham, a property near Town Branch Road was acquired to establish the first Lewis County Health Department.  Their vision was clear: a dedicated space where residents could access essential health and environmental services.  For nearly five decades, that establishment served as the backbone of community health.  

Fast forward to 2006, the burgeoning needs of our community called for it a more expansive space.  With a blend of grant funding, local health tax dollars, and the dedicated efforts of Ralph Jordon and his team, we ushered in a new era.  Our current facility at 185 Commercial Drive is a modern testament to that legacy and embodies our commitment to evolve with the times while staying rooted in our mission. 

Today, we wear our history with pride and move with an even greater zeal towards the future.  Our services are diverse, innovative, and centered around the needs of our residents.  Case in point: our HANDS program, which supports first-time parents, guides them through the early stages of parenthood to ensure a healthy new generation of Lewis Countians.  Parents participating in the program are paired with trained professionals who provide invaluable home visits, offering personalized advice tailored to each family's unique needs.  This one-on-one interaction fosters an environment of trust, making it easier for parents to share concerns, ask questions, and receive guidance  

Our recent diabetes cooking class has been a fun and unique way to connect diabetes management to real, everyday tasks.  The session not only empowered attendees with vital knowledge to manage their diabetes but also introduced creative culinary alternatives, like the crowd-favorite spaghetti squash spaghetti - a healthier twist on a classic dish! 

Recently, we organized a Car Seat Safety Day, underscoring our commitment to the well-being of our youngest community members.  Recognizing the paramount importance of child safety during commutes, we were elated to distribute over 15 free car seats to families in need.  But our efforts didn't stop there.  To ensure these seats provided maximum safety benefits, each was installed by a certified installer. 

Our primary goal remains: to serve you, our beloved community, with effective, affordable, and empathetic care.  We believe in equipping our community with knowledge, tools, and resources to foster healthier lives.  Every day, our passionate team works tirelessly towards this, ensuring every Lewis County resident feels seen, heard, and cared for. 

As we look back, we're filled with gratitude.  As we look ahead, we're driven by hope, dedication, and the promise to always be here for you.