The St. Mary’s County Health Department has been named Maryland’s 2021 Community Star by the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH).

NOSORH sets aside the third Thursday of every November to celebrate National Rural Health Day. NRHD showcases the efforts of rural healthcare providers, State Offices of Rural Health, and other rural stakeholders to address the unique healthcare challenges that rural citizens face today and in the future.

NOSORH’s annual Community Star recognition program is one of the most popular features of NRHD. Each person, coalition, and organization nominated to be their state’s Community Star represents the faces and grassroots initiatives working to address the social determinants of health and improve the lives of those who call rural their home.

“We are honored to be recognized as the Community Star for Maryland,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “Our health department team and community partners have together shown tremendous grit, compassion, and innovation over the past two years of pandemic response. Despite these incredibly challenging times, we have worked together to continue essential public health services and advance health equity for all members of our community.”

Visit the St. Mary’s County Health Department website and the NOSORH website for more information.