THOMASTON &8212; In an effort to expand access to healthcare in rural areas, the Thomaston Baptist Church will become the newest location for Wellness Days, a program offered by the Rural Assistance Program for Churches and Schools.

The program was established in Marengo County after a model program that is a collaborative effort between the Health and Wellness Education Center and RAPCS held at the Health and Wellness Center in the Sumter County Health Department. RAPCS is funded by a federal grant, and the program operates under the umbrella of the Tombigbee Healthcare Authority in Demopolis and covers Marengo, Sumter and Greene counties in West Alabama.

&8220;We are now going to be able to touch a lot more people with our program,&8221; she said.

The program will feature various speakers, who will address various health topics, in addition to free blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol and height and weight screenings conducted by a registered nurse. Some of the topics for discussion include &8220;Understanding Cardiovascular Disease&8221; and &8220;Preventative Health: What it Means to You.&8221;

Washington said although they have topics in mind to discuss, participants are encouraged to ask about information they want to know about.

Washington said the service they provide is incredibly important in the areas they serve because it is a way to provide healthcare to those who cannot afford it or who otherwise might not receive the care they may need.

Washington said churches and schools interested in hosting the wellness program should contact her at 334-287-2572.