HOPE VALLEY, R.I. (August 2, 2026) — Wood River Health is proud to join community health centers across the country in celebrating National Health Center Week, an annual observance that recognizes the essential role health centers play in advancing health and well-being in communities nationwide.
National Health Center Week 2026 will take place August 2–8, 2026, with the theme “Building Innovative Care Where It Matters Most,” celebrating the work of Community Health Centers across the U.S. This year’s celebration is especially meaningful as Wood River Health marks 50 years of serving southern Rhode Island residents with high-quality, integrated health care and support services.
Since opening its doors in 1976, Wood River Health has grown into a comprehensive community health center providing medical, dental and behavioral health care, along with programs designed to address the social factors that influence health. Through five decades of service, the organization has remained committed to ensuring that patients receive compassionate, person-centered care close to home.
National Health Center Week highlights the impact of Community Health Centers, which provide care to more than 52 million Americans regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. Health centers deliver preventive, primary and integrated care services while helping reduce barriers that can make it difficult for individuals and families to achieve their best health. While representing just 1% of the nation's total health care spending, Community Health Centers provide primary care services to 14% of the U.S. population and save the health care system billions of dollars each year by preventing costly emergency department visits and hospitalizations.
“National Health Center Week is an opportunity to celebrate the patients, staff, board members and community partners who make our mission possible,” said Alison L. Croke, President and CEO of Wood River Health. “As we reflect on the past 50 years, we are grateful for the trust our community has placed in us and proud of the role we have played in delivering high-quality care, advancing health equity and supporting the overall well-being of our neighbors.”
“Community health centers are built on the belief that everyone deserves access to high-quality, compassionate care,” said Dr. Lisa Menard-Manlove, Chief Medical Officer at Wood River Health. “Every day, we have the privilege of caring for individuals and families across our community, helping people stay healthy, manage chronic conditions and access the support they need to live healthier lives. National Health Center Week is an opportunity to recognize the tremendous impact this model of care has on patients and communities alike.”
Community Health Centers are uniquely positioned to respond to local needs because they are governed by community-based boards and focus on delivering integrated, patient-centered care. Beyond medical services, many health centers connect patients with resources that address food insecurity, housing instability, transportation challenges and other social determinants of health.
At Wood River Health, that commitment extends beyond the exam room. Programs such as the Kim Hebert Community Fund help connect qualifying patients with resources and support that can improve health outcomes and quality of life.
Throughout National Health Center Week, Wood River Health will recognize the contributions of employees, patients, volunteers and community partners whose dedication strengthens the organization and the communities it serves.
As the organization celebrates its 50th anniversary, Wood River Health remains focused on building a healthier future for Rhode Island residents through compassionate care, innovative services and strong community partnerships. As part of the national Community Health Center movement, Wood River Health is proud to advance a model of care that improves health outcomes, expands access and delivers high-value care for the communities it serves.
