Category: pr

press releases

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Provide Tips for Safe, Healthy Holiday Travel 

Posted on by bryanhooten

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 19, 2025
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov 

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Provide Tips for Safe, Healthy Holiday Travel
Plan Ahead for a Healthy and Safe Holiday 

RICHMOND, Va. – As you and your family prepare to travel during the holiday season, Richmond and Henrico Health District (RHHD) remind you to take important steps now to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy. Holiday travel and festive gatherings can increase the risk of spreading infectious diseases and encountering unexpected emergencies. 

“Gathering with friends and family is one of the highlights of the holiday season,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Director Elaine Perry, M.D. “When we take steps like checking our immunization status, preventing seasonal illness, and making smart travel decisions, we protect our health and the health of our loved ones. Have a safe and memorable holiday, whether you are traveling or staying close to home.” 

RHHD shares these tips to healthy and safe holiday travel: 

  • Check Immunization Status: To check your immunization status, call your healthcare provider or request records through the VDH Record Request Portal. Make sure you are up-to-date on all of your recommended vaccines. Measles and other infectious diseases can spread quickly in a large group of unvaccinated people.  
  • Prevent Seasonal Illnesses: Protect yourself and your loved ones from respiratory viruses like COVID-19, flu, and RSV by doing three little things: washing your hands, covering your cough and getting vaccinated. Everyone aged six months and older should get a flu shot every year, with a few exceptions. Talk to a healthcare provider about which vaccines are recommended for you and your family. 
  • Pack Smart: Pack enough prescription medications for the entire trip, plus extra in case of delays. Keep medications in their original containers and carry them in your hand luggage. Pack a travel health kit. 
  • Stay Home if Sick: Postpone your travel and stay home when you are sick. Consider purchasing trip cancellation insurance to cover expenses if you must change your plans due to illness. 

RHHD wishes everyone a safe, healthy, and festive holiday season. Visit rhhd.gov for more travel tips and health and safety information. Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook.  

# # # 

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are sister public health agencies serving our connected communities. Our mission is to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs.  

rhhd.gov | henrico.gov/health | RHHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd  

Posted in pr

RHHD Encourages Product Recall Awareness

Posted on by bryanhooten

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 15, 2025 

Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov  

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Encourage Product Recall Awareness During the Holidays 

RICHMOND, Va. – Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) encourage community members to stay aware of food and toy recalls during the holiday season. Recalls let consumers know if there have been possible illnesses or injuries associated with items they’ve purchased.  

“We encourage everyone to be aware of safety recalls during the holidays,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Environmental Health Manager Cindy McKelvy. “Recalls protect consumers when a safety issue is found in food or in consumer products like toys. Anything from a missing allergen label to burn and fire hazards can cause a recall. Once a recall has been initiated, consumers should check their pantries, refrigerators or freezers, and their children’s toys for any recalled items. Community members should ensure their safety and the safety of their families by carefully following recall instructions for return or disposal of the items.” 

Recent Food-Related Outbreaks and Product-Related Injuries and Deaths 

There have been food-related outbreaks of salmonella, listeria and infant botulism in the U.S. in 2025.  

According to the 2024 Annual Report from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were 62 deaths and an estimated 87,709 emergency department-treated injuries associated with use of child nursery equipment and supplies. There were 13 deaths and 180,224 emergency department-treated injuries associated with the use of toys.  

These organizations post recall information: 

If you have purchased a recalled product:  

  • Do not eat or use the product. 
  • Return the food or toy for a refund, as instructed by the recall. 
  • Dispose of the product safely, as instructed by the recall. 
  • In the case of a food recall, clean surfaces, drawers, or utensils that came into contact with the food.  

Follow these tips to ensure all holiday gifts are safe for children:  

  • Make sure any toy you buy is age appropriate. Children under three should not use toys with small parts that can easily go into a mouth. If you’re not sure about size, try fitting toy parts through a toilet paper roll — toys that can pass through the roll will pose a choking hazard.  
  • Follow all packaging instructions about safe usage.  
  • If you’re gifting a bike, skates, or scooter, add a helmet to the package. 

Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook. 

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Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are sister public health agencies serving our connected communities. Our mission is to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs. 

rhhd.gov | henrico.gov/health | RHHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd 

RHHD Shares Winter Weather Safety Tips

Posted on by bryanhooten

OR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 4, 2025 

Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov 

RHHD Shares Winter Weather Safety Tips 

RICHMOND, Va. – Richmond and Henrico Health Districts RHHD encourage community members to prepare for winter weather at home and on the road by building emergency kits and understanding cold weather hazards. 

“Don’t let winter weather take you by surprise,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Acting Local Health Emergency Coordinator Alyssa Lewis. “Now is the time to make sure your home, family, friends, and neighbors are ready for the winter season. We encourage everyone to create basic kits for your home and vehicles, know what hazards affect your area, and know how to keep your loved ones safe. A little preparation now can prevent an emergency later.” 

RHHD offers these tips to help you and your family prepare for winter weather: 

  • Keep at least one emergency kit at home and one in your vehicle. Ready.gov has a great list of basic kit necessities and options for making low-cost kits. If there’s a baby in the home, make sure the kit includes formula and/or breast milk supplies, diapers, and other necessary items. Anyone with prescription medications should place a few weeks’ worth in their kit. If you freeze or refrigerate breast milk or prescription medication, add a cooler to your kit checklist. Finally, Don’t forget about your pets. 
  • Keep warm safely. The improper use of some heat sources can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning or death. In the event of a power outage and freezing temperatures: 
    • Avoid using stovetop burners or an oven to heat your home.  
    • Keep generators outdoors and separate from the home. 
    • If your car becomes stranded: 
    • Clear snow from the exhaust pipe. 
    • Run the motor about 10 minutes each hour for heat. 
    • While running the motor, open an upwind window (the direction the wind is coming from) slightly for ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. 
  • Write down the contact information and directions to your local Inclement Weather Shelter or warming center. 
    • City of Richmond Inclement Weather Shelter (IWS)
      1900 Chamberlayne Parkway
      Richmond, VA, 23222
      Open 5 p.m.-8 a.m.
      The IWS is for single adult men and women and can accommodate service animals. All guests can access heated indoor space, restrooms, seating, light snacks and beverages, dinner, ADA-accessible areas, hygiene kits, weekly health services van, mobile showers twice monthly, bed bug treatment, and onsite security. Access to the shelter is on a first-come, first-served basis. 

      • Extended Hours: The IWS may remain open after 8:00 a.m. in the event of: 
        • Temperatures ≤ 40°F, or 
        • Freezing rain or snow greater than one inch over a 24-hour period
    • Families may access the Community Resource & Training Center (CRTC) between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
      1900 Chamberlayne Parkway
      Richmond, VA, 23222
      Call 804-646-3111 or email homeless@rva.gov for more information. 
    • Richmond Public Library branches serve as warming spaces during normal operating hours. 
    • Henrico County libraries and recreation centers are open to the public during normal operating hours.  
  • Check weather conditions before driving. If you’re not familiar with driving in the snow, or your vehicle isn’t built for extreme weather, consider delaying your trip. A wet day with freezing temperatures overnight can create icy streets the following day. Visit the Virginia Department of Transportation for more winter driving tips. If you plan to travel, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) provides travel advisories on current road conditions and weather forecasts. Travelers can easily access weather information by dialing 511, 24 hours a day, seven days a week or via the website at 511.vdot.virginia.gov. 
  • Check for impairment before driving. Distractions, drowsiness, drugs, and alcohol can impair your driving. Traffic crashes are preventable. Keep loved ones and community members safe by arranging for a designated driver, making use of rideshares or the Greater Richmond Transit Company’s (GRTC) fare-free bus lines, or by gathering at home. 

For more information and winter weather safety tips, visit ready.gov/winter-ready. 

# # # 

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are sister public health agencies serving our connected communities. Our mission is to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs.  

rhhd.gov | henrico.gov/health | RHHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd  

RHHD Encourages Community Members to Get Vaccinated for Flu and COVID-19 

Posted on by bryanhooten

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 3, 2025 

Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov 

RHHD Encourages Community Members to Get Vaccinated for Flu and COVID-19 

RICHMOND, Va. – With the 2025-26 respiratory virus season officially underway, Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) encourage everyone six months and older who lives, works, or plays in our community to receive their annual flu and COVID-19 vaccines. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a severe 2024-25 flu season with record high hospitalization rate in the U.S and the highest number of pediatric deaths during a regular, non-pandemic season. Last season, Virginia reported six influenza-associated pediatric deaths and 366 influenza outbreaks. 

Vaccination Rates 

Current local vaccination rates for flu and COVID-19 are lower than they have been in previous years. As of Dec. 2, 2025, 19.6 percent of Richmond City residents and 23.3 percent of Henrico County residents have received the 2025-2026 flu vaccine. Only 7.8 percent of Richmond City and 7.7 percent of Henrico County residents have received the 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine.  

By Dec. 2, 2024, 19.7 percent of Richmond City residents and 25.7 percent of Henrico County residents had received the flu vaccine. During the same time period, 10 percent of Richmond residents and 11 percent of Henrico residents had received the COVID-19 vaccine.  

“Vaccines are the best tool we have for preventing infection from flu and COVID-19,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Director Elaine Perry, M.D. “Unfortunately, we are seeing fewer people get these safe and effective vaccines than in years past. Vaccines can protect you and your community from severe illness, hospitalization, and death as respiratory virus activity increases in the colder months. Just like we’ve seen with viruses like measles, more vaccinations mean reduced transmission, fewer outbreaks, and more time with friends and family.” 

Where to Get Vaccines 

You can get vaccinated for flu and COVID-19 at a local pharmacy or your primary care provider. 

Virginia Vaccines for Children (VVFC) providers offer no-cost vaccines to children (younger than 19 years of age) who are uninsured or underinsured; Medicaid-eligible or Medicaid-enrolled; and/or American Indian or Alaska Native. Search for a VVFC provider near you by using rhhd.gov/vfc.  

Virginia Vaccines for Adults (VVFA) providers offer no-cost vaccinations to adults who are uninsured or underinsured. People receiving VVFA vaccinations may be required to pay an admin fee, usually between $10 and $20. Search for a VVFA provider near you by using rhhd.gov/vfa. 

Respiratory Virus Season 

Flu season, the period of highest virus activity, normally begins in early October and ends in late May. While seasonal outbreaks can happen as early as October, during most seasons, activity peaks in January or February. COVID-19 spreads year-round but tends to be more common in the fall and winter. 

People need flu and COVID-19 vaccines for two reasons. First, the body’s immune response from vaccination declines over time, so an annual vaccine is needed for optimal protection. Second, because these viruses are constantly changing, the formulation of these vaccines is reviewed each year and updated to target changing viruses. 

As long as these viruses are circulating, it’s not too late to get your vaccines. 

COVID-19 and Influenza Viruses 

Influenza and COVID-19 are serious diseases caused by viruses that affects the respiratory tract. These viruses generally spread from person-to-person when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These viruses can be transmitted even before symptoms appear. A person usually becomes sick with flu one to three days following exposure to the virus. A person usually becomes sick with COVID-19 two to 14 days following exposure to the virus. Typical flu symptoms include fever, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, muscle aches and extreme fatigue. Typical COVID-19 symptoms include fever, chills, cough, loss of taste or smell, severe fatigue, headaches, body aches, and sore throat. 

How to Protect Yourself and Others 

To minimize your risk of contracting or transmitting these viruses, follow these simple steps: 

  • Get vaccinated. 
  • Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, for at least 20 seconds. 
  • Cover your cough, either by using a disposable tissue or coughing into your sleeve, not your hand. 
  • Stay at home when you are sick. 

It is safe to get both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time. For more information, call RHHD at 804-205-3500. 

Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook. 

### 

 

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are sister public health agencies serving our connected communities. Our mission is to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs. 

rhhd.gov | henrico.gov/health | RHHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd

Posted in pr

RHHD Invites You to Give the Gift of Time for Giving Tuesday

Posted on by bryanhooten

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 2, 2025
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov 

 

RHHD Invites You to Give the Gift of Time for Giving Tuesday
Volunteer with the Medical Reserve Corps 

RICHMOND, Va. – This Giving Tuesday, Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) encourage you to give one of the most meaningful gifts of all: your time. By joining the Virginia Medical Reserve Corps (MRC), you can make a lasting impact on public health and emergency preparedness right here at home. 

“Greater Richmond Medical Reserve Corps volunteers from many different backgrounds come together to help make our communities safer, stronger, and healthier,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Acting Local Health Emergency Coordinator Alyssa Lewis. “Volunteering not only makes a difference in your community; it can also reduce your own stress and loneliness, provide a sense of purpose, improve your physical and mental health, and create lifelong friendships.” 

The MRC is a statewide network of volunteers who partner with RHHD year-round and step in during disasters and emergencies. Volunteers come from all walks of life. No medical degree is required. Whether you’re a retiree looking to stay active, a student seeking service hours, or simply someone who wants to give back, there’s a place for you in the MRC. 

As an MRC volunteer, you’ll receive free lifesaving training, gain valuable skills, and connect with new friends while serving your community. From health fairs to emergency response efforts, volunteers help keep families safe and healthy. 

In RHHD, the MRC volunteers: 

  • Support vaccination events for flu, COVID19, and school-required immunizations. 
  • Staff shelters and mobile clinics during storms and other emergencies. 
  • Teach hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), automated external defibrillator (AED) use, and bleeding control skills. 
  • Assist with opioid response by leading Revive! training sessions. 
  • Staff first aid tents at marathons, races, and community celebrations. 
  • Assist with rabies vaccination clinics and drug takeback events. 
  • Provide administrative and call center support. 

This Giving Tuesday, share your time and talents with the MRC. Together, we can strengthen our communities and spread the gift of good health. 

Apply today at Virginia Volunteer Health or learn more by contacting RHHD at 804-501-4532 or alyssa.lewis@vdh.virginia.gov.  

Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook.  

# # #  

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are sister public health agencies serving our connected communities. Our mission is to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs.  

rhhd.gov | henrico.gov/health | RHHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd  

Posted in pr

RHHD Encourages Community Members to Seek Preventative Care, Testing for HIV

Posted on by bryanhooten

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 1, 2025 

Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov  

 

RHHD Encourages Community Members to Seek Preventative Care, Testing for HIV 

December 1 is World AIDS Day 

RICHMOND, Va. — Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) commemorate World AIDS Day Dec. 1 by encouraging community members to seek preventative care, testing, and/or treatment for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).  

Virginia Department of Health data from 2023 shows that Richmond City and Henrico County had the second and third highest rates of new HIV diagnoses per 100,000 people (respectively, by health district) in Virginia. 

“The only way to know your HIV status is to get tested,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Disease Intervention Specialist Bennett Shumaker. “Knowing your status helps keep you and your partner(s) healthy. Our disease intervention specialists understand that receiving the news of a new HIV diagnosis is challenging. We are here to offer support, grace, and hope.” 

RHHD Testing Options  

RHHD offers clinic-based sexually transmitted infection (STI) and HIV testing appointments at its Cary Street, Henrico East, and Henrico West clinics. Visit rhhd.gov/sti for information and to view testing appointment options. Use rhhd.gov/VA-HIV-testing to search for Virginia-based HIV testing options near you.  

RHHD also offers pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). PrEP is a daily medication that is highly effective at helping prevent HIV. To learn more about PrEP, call 804-482-5493. 

People living with HIV needing support from the Virginia Medication Assistance Program (VAMAP) can call 855-362-0658. 

Community Partner Testing Options 

The following RHHD community partners offer free STI and HIV testing services:  

Use the CDC testing site locator to find a testing site near you. 

HIV Data 

In Richmond, proximity to resources like clinics and pharmacies, as well as insurance status, are still shaped by histories of redlining and segregation. In the U.S., people who identify as Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino are disproportionately affected by HIV compared to their population size, showing that effective HIV prevention and treatment are not adequately reaching these communities. People who identify as multiracial are also disproportionately impacted. 

HIV disproportionally affects people who identify as Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, and multiracial. These groups only make up 22% of the U.S. population. Yet, according to the CDC, they account for 74% of the 31,800 individuals who acquired HIV in the U.S. in 2022. 

Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook. 

### 

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are sister public health agencies serving our connected communities. Our mission is to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs. 

rhhd.gov | henrico.gov/health | RHHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd 

Posted in pr

RHHD Shares Food Safety Tips for the Holidays

Posted on by bryanhooten
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 24, 2025
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov

RHHD Shares Food Safety Tips for the Holidays
Share the Joy this Holiday, Not the Germs 

RICHMOND, Va. – The holiday season is here! Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) share safety and prevention tips to ensure that your holidays are filled with joy, laughter and good tidings, not foodborne illness. 

“We encourage everyone to practice safe food handling during this holiday season,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Environmental Health Manager Cindy McKelvy. “Make sure you wash your hands (but not your turkey), cook foods to proper temperatures, cool foods quickly, store foods properly, and thoroughly reheat pre-cooked foods. Practicing safe food handling in the kitchen will help protect you and your loved ones from foodborne illness.” 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that one in six Americans (48 million) get sick from foodborne illness every year. Foodborne illnesses usually affect your stomach or bowels. Typical signs and symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. Don’t let a foodborne illness put a damper on your holiday celebration. 

RHHD shares four key steps to preventing foodborne illness – clean, separate, cook, and chill. 

Clean 

  • Wash Your Hands. Wash your hands before and after preparing food or eating and after using the bathroom or changing diapers. Be sure to wash hands after handling uncooked meat, chicken and other poultry, seafood, flour, or eggs. 
  • Wash Surfaces. Wash any surface that comes in contact with food—including counters, cutting boards, and utensils—with hot, soapy water before and after preparing each food item. 

Separate 

  • Keep Foods Separate. Keep raw meat, poultry, seafood, and their juices away from other foods when grocery shopping. Store them in separate spots in the refrigerator. 
  • Avoid Cross-Contamination. Avoid cross-contamination by not reusing cutting boards, utensils, and plates, especially if they have touched uncooked foods. 
  • Prevent Germs from Spreading. Do not rinse poultry. Research from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) found that rinsing poultry and raw meat often spreads germs onto sinks and countertops. 

Cook 

  • Thaw Food Properly. Thaw frozen food safely in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave. Never thaw turkey by leaving it on the counter at room temperature. 
  • Microwave Thoroughly. Microwave ovens can cook food unevenly and leave “cold spots” where harmful bacteria can survive. Follow recommended cooking and standing times. Letting food sit for a few minutes after microwaving allows it to cook more completely. 
  • Avoid Raw Foods. CDC advises against eating raw foods, including uncooked meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and flour. Raw cookie dough should not be eaten because it contains raw eggs and flour. 

Chill 

  • Set the Temperature. Keep your refrigerator at 40°F or below and your freezer at 0°F or below. 
  • Use the Two-Hour Rule. Refrigerate any leftovers within two hours. This rule applies to any food that should normally be refrigerated, including pumpkin pie! Discard any food left out at room temperature for more than two hours. When in doubt, throw it out. 
  • Store Leftovers Safely. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for three to four days or in the freezer for three to four months. Store leftover food in small, shallow containers for quicker cooling. 

If you suspect that more than one person has become ill after eating a common food, please contact RHHD at 804-205-3912. You can also visit MyMealDetective.com to submit a foodborne illness report. 

# # # 

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are sister public health agencies serving our connected communities. Our mission is to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs.  

rhhd.gov | henrico.gov/health | RHHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd  

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RHHD Encourages Community to Call it Quits on Smoking

Posted on by bryanhooten

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 20, 2025 

Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov 

RHHD Encourages Community to Call it Quits on Smoking
The Great American Smokeout is November 20 

RICHMOND, Va. – In support of The Great American Smokeout on Thursday, Nov. 20, Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) encourage those who are interested in quitting smoking to seek local resources. Richmond residents can participate in the RHHD Free From Tobacco program. 

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. More people, both men and women, in the United States die from lung cancer than any other type of cancer according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, responsible for approximately 85% of all cases. 

According to the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) Tobacco Control Program, smoking remains the single largest preventable cause of death and disease in the United States, killing more than 480,000 Americans each year. More than 41,000 of these deaths are from exposure to secondhand smoke. 

“Tobacco cessation is a journey,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Free From Tobacco Coach Richard Baker. “These products are often deeply embedded into a person’s lifestyle, and we want to encourage each client to think more about what they’re buying and using. Our goal is to support people in breaking free of addictive behaviors.” 

Free From Tobacco 

Free From Tobacco is a culturally competent one-on-one coaching program designed to remove barriers for Richmond residents who wish to quit smoking and remain abstinent from all tobacco products. Richmond residents interested in the Free From Tobacco program can call 804-482-8018 for more information or complete the intake form directly at rhhd.gov/tobaccofree. Benefits clients receive from their coach include: 

  • Weekly in-person or virtual coaching sessions 
  • Education on tobacco cessation health benefits and strategies 
  • Background on the history of tobacco 
  • Access to videos and useful surveys 
  • Better management of potential chronic diseases for overall health and well being 
  • Connection to valuable resources such as Quit Now Virginia 

Quit Now Virginia 

Quit Now Virginia is a statewide evidence-based cessation service for those who want to quit smoking or using smokeless tobacco, nicotine, e-cigarettes, or vapes. Clients can receive one-on-one coaching sessions by phone, chat, or text, as well as group coaching. Virginia tobacco and nicotine users interested in quitting their addiction can contact Quit Now Virginia at 1-800-Quit Now (1-800-784-8669) or at quitnowvirginia.org.  

Virginia Smoking Data 

In Virginia, about 10,300 adults die each year from smoking, 1,600 non-smokers die each year due to secondhand smoke, and 6,900 children have lost a parent to smoking-related death. Given current smoking levels, 152,000 children living today will ultimately die of smoking. Annual healthcare costs in Virginia directly caused by tobacco use are $3.61 billion. 

CDC State Tobacco-Related Disparities Data from 2023 show that 20.7 percent of adult Virginians who had attained less than a high school education smoked cigarettes, compared to 4.1 percent of adult Virginians who had graduated from college. Nearly 20 percent of Virginia adults who were unemployed smoked cigarettes, compared to 10.2 percent of adult Virginians who were employed. Additionally, 28.2 percent of adults who were unable to work due to a physical, mental, or other condition smoked cigarettes. 

Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook. 

### 

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are sister public health agencies serving our connected communities. Our mission is to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs. 

rhhd.gov | henrico.gov/health | RHHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd 

Posted in pr

RHHD Shares Spooktacular Halloween Safety Tips

Posted on by bryanhooten

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 30, 2025 

Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov 

RHHD Says Spooktacular Halloween Fun Starts with Safety
Tricks, Treats, and Top Safety Tips for Families 

RICHMOND, Va. – With Halloween right around the corner, Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) share some spooktacular safety tips to help every family have a night full of treats, laughter, and safe adventures. Get ready for a ghoulishly good time—let’s make this Halloween the best (and safest) one yet! 

“Having a safe (not scary) Halloween is easy and fun when you follow a few simple steps,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Director Elaine Perry, M.D. “Keep costumes visible and fit for walking, stick to sidewalks, and cross the street at crosswalks and corners. Make sure treats are sealed in their original wrappers. Welcome trick-or-treaters with a well-lit front door and keep walkways free of tripping hazards. Let’s help our ghouls, ghosts, and goblins get home safely.” 

RHHD encourages you to keep these quick tips in mind when trick or treating this Halloween season. 

Costume Safety 

  • Make sure costumes are bright or have reflective tape so drivers can see you at night. 
  • Wear costumes that fit well to avoid tripping. 
  • Use face paint instead of masks to keep your vision clear. 

Trick-or-Treating 

  • Children should always walk in groups and stay with an adult. 
  • Use sidewalks whenever possible and cross streets at corners, following traffic signals. 
  • Carry a flashlight or glow sticks to light your way. 

Candy Safety 

  • Wait until you get home to eat your treats so an adult can check them first. 
  • Only eat candy that is sealed and in its original wrapper. 
  • Avoid homemade treats unless you know who made them. 

Home Safety 

  • Keep your porch and walkways well-lit for visitors. 
  • Remove anything from your yard that could cause someone to trip, or any fire hazards. 

Following these tips will help make Halloween fun and safe for everyone. Have a happy Halloween! 

If you have questions about Halloween safety, contact RHHD at 804-205-3500. Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook. 

# # # 

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are sister public health agencies serving our connected communities. Our mission is to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs. 

rhhd.gov | henrico.gov/health | RHHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd 

Richmond Health Equity Fund Annouces Continued Funding for Community Organizations

Posted on by bryanhooten

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 29, 2025 
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov  

Richmond Health Equity Fund Announces Continued Funding for Community Organizations 

RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Health Equity Fund (HEF) announces $135,000 in continued funding for community organizations providing services in the following areas: 

  • Access to Healthcare and Education Resources 
  • Chronic Disease and Underlying Health Conditions 
  • Food Access and Security 
  • Maternal and Child Health 
  • Mental and Behavioral Health 

“The Health Equity Fund embodies what it means to build a Thriving Richmond, where families, neighborhoods, and communities have the resources they need and deserve to live healthy, full lives,” said Richmond Mayor Danny Avula. “I’m so thrilled to continue investing in trusted, community-led organizations that create real opportunity and advance health equity where it matters most. We’re deeply grateful to the community partners whose leadership makes this possible.” 

“The Health Equity Fund continues to drive meaningful progress in closing health disparity gaps that have persisted for decades,” said City of Richmond Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Human Services Amy Popovich. “By investing in these seven organizational partners, we’re supporting proven, community-led programs that continue to reflect what a Thriving Richmond can be. This funding reflects our belief that every resident deserves the chance to thrive and that equity is achieved when we resource those closest to the work.”  

New and renewed funding 

The Richmond Health Equity Fund invests in community-led programs, initiatives, and leaders to improve health and quality of life in communities experiencing deep health disparities and the longstanding impacts of racism. To-date, the HEF has designated over $4.3 million, including $397,398 in new funding and an additional $135,000 in continued funding for community organizations announced today: 

  • Access to Healthcare and Education Resources  
    • CrossOver Healthcare Ministry provides integrated chronic disease care and education to uninsured or Medicaid patients who are City of Richmond residents. 
    • Health Brigade provides communicable disease testing, treatment, and linkage to care specifically for syphilis, hepatitis C virus (HCV), tuberculosis (TB), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) to low income, uninsured and underinsured Richmond residents. 
  • Chronic Disease and Underlying Health Conditions  
    • Healthy Hearts Plus provides both the eight-week virtual Community Based Diabetes Self-Management Education program, and the Food is Medicine delivery program to help participants to lower their A1Cs, lose weight, and manage associated comorbidities through subtle lifestyle changes.   
  • Food Access and Security  
    • Kinfolk Community produces culturally appropriate food, trains youth in urban agriculture, and improves physical and mental health within historically underserved communities through health education, community care events, and restorative practices. 
    • Shalom Farms maintains the Mobile Market program through the general and shoulder (extended) market season, keeping up with inflating costs, and funding additional value-add products from other producers at the markets. 
  • Maternal and Child Health  
    • Urban Baby Beginnings is expanding longer-term care coordination staffing and resources for birthing and postpartum individuals and their infants in Richmond City. 
  • Mental and Behavioral Health   
    • Drums No Guns Foundation provides programming in the mindfulness room, expanding the reach of community circles, enhancing programming in the school and community garden, as well as increasing involvement of students in the Generation Dream educational concert. 

History of the Health Equity Fund 

In October 2021, the City of Richmond established the Health Equity Fund to focus on key areas of health disparity through an initial investment of $5 million from federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. Since then, the HEF has diversified its funding sources to include City of Richmond non-departmental funding and investments from The Community Foundation, The Bob and Anna Lou Schaberg Foundation, Atlantic Union Bank, Dominion Charitable Foundation, and the Robins Foundation. 

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Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are sister public health agencies serving our connected communities. Our mission is to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs. 

rhhd.gov | henrico.gov/health | RHHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd 

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