APPLETON CITY, Mo. – Healthy Blue is increasing its investment in rural Missouri by expanding its partnership with the West Central Missouri Community Action Agency (West Central) to boost food security and improve community health across the region.
The renewed agreement includes a $50,000 contribution for 2026, bringing Healthy Blue’s total investment to $100,000 from 2024 through 2026.
West Central serves nine rural Missouri counties—Bates, Benton, Cass, Cedar, Henry, Hickory, Morgan, St. Clair, and Vernon—along with two counties in Kansas. The agency and its affiliate, New Growth Community Development Corporation, offer a wide range of programs designed to help residents access healthy food, community resources, and essential services.
Healthy Blue says the partnership is part of its rural health strategy, focusing on supporting communities that lack nearby hospitals, specialty care, or other health resources.
“We’re proud to partner with organizations that share our commitment to improving health outcomes,” said Jeff Davis, President of Healthy Blue in Missouri. “Through this partnership, we’re helping ensure that families in rural Missouri have reliable access to nutritious food and vital community resources.”
West Central officials say Healthy Blue’s support has been critical, especially during periods of rising demand and supply shortages. The funding has helped food pantries provide fresh produce and healthier options, including support for older adults and individuals with disabilities. It has also strengthened infrastructure and equipment needed for long-term service capacity.
“Healthy Blue funding continues to play a critical role in strengthening our ability to meet rising food insecurity needs across our service area,” said Jamie Oberly, Chief Community Services Officer at West Central. “This support helps us expand fresh food initiatives and ensure continuity of services for households in need.”
Healthy Blue says its partnerships across Missouri help address the social drivers of health—such as food security, housing stability, and access to care—that impact overall well-being.
“These partnerships allow us to increase our impact, strengthen local networks, and make lasting improvements in community health,” Davis said.
The renewed investment continues Healthy Blue’s commitment to improve rural health outcomes and support families across Missouri.
