Community Hubs receive national recognition

Honored for their work with the Community Hubs were (l-r) CCBC members Glenda Ruise, FDOH’s Iana Patterson, CCBC members Janice Mortimer, Judy Sumpter, Sherry Williams, Alica McMillian, Rosa Thomas, Kate Ellison, Maria Marks, Mary Lousie Johnson and Mary Lee Hankerson, Lawtey Councilwoman Debra Norman and FDOH’s Amie Oody. Pictured in back are commissioners Diane Andrews, Kenny Thompson, Danny Riddick, Carolyn Spooner and Chris Dougherty.

 

BY MARK J. CRAWFORD

[email protected]

The National Association of Counties has recognized Bradford County as a 2025 Achievement Award winner for its support of Bradford County Community Partners Health and Wellness Resource Hubs. 

The award was shared with organizations supporting Bradford County Community Partners during the July 17 commission meeting, including Concerned Citizens of Bradford County, the Florida Department of Health in Bradford, the city of Lawtey and The Arc of Bradford.

Commissioner Carolyn Spooner recalled the founding of the resource hubs around the county, beginning with the RJE Complex hub in Starke (established January 2023), the Lawtey hub at Tatum Bros. Park (December 2023) and the Arc hub at its Hampton location (May 2024). 

The hubs provide a range of essential services, including health checkups, mental health support, job assistance, financial literacy classes, and access to computers and the internet. By placing these services in easily accessible locations, the program ensures that even residents without transportation can receive support. 

The initiative brings neighborhoods together, promotes healthier and more stable lives, and serves as a model for other communities. It is ongoing project to serve residents of Bradford County, and any input to improve services is welcome. 

Check the out what they have to offer at these dates and times:

—RJE Hub (1080 Pine St. in Starke) opens the second Wednesday of each month, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

—Lawtey Hub (22598 Park St. in Lawtey) opens quarterly. The next date is Aug. 14 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

—Hampton Hub (10501 Hampton Ave. in Hampton) opens the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.