Last Saturday, we joined nearly 100 community members in the rain outside the Newport Municipal Building for something that matters to all of us—protecting rural healthcare and the future of North Country Hospital.
This wasn’t just another rally. It was neighbors, patients, doctors, organizers, and local leaders coming together to say: our hospital matters. It was clear that losing access to healthcare in the Northeast Kingdom isn’t just inconvenient—it threatens the heart of our community.
We heard from longtime doctors, concerned residents, and even our mayor, Rick Ufford-Chase, who reminded us that revitalizing downtown Newport depends on having strong local healthcare. Without it, our vision for a thriving community just doesn’t work.
The energy was powerful. After the rally, we marched through downtown, cheered on by folks passing by, and gathered for a free community lunch in the city gym. Despite the weather, the sense of solidarity was strong.
This is just the beginning. More conversations and events are coming up, including a “Soup & Stories” gathering on April 29 at St. Mark’s Church and a NEKO Member Monday event on May 5 in Derby.
At NDD, we believe healthcare is part of what makes a strong downtown. When people feel secure and supported, our whole community thrives.
Let’s keep showing up for each other.