A coalition of concerned families from Wayne and Randolph counties are holding a Jul. 26 rally to raise awareness of concerns about health care, access to food and protection of human rights.
In a news release, organizers say that proposed cuts to federal programs like Medicaid and SNAP will hurt millions of families. They say that locally this could lead to the closure of Ascension St. Vincent Randolph Hospital in Winchester, which would reduce access to health care and other resources for residents.
The “Families First Day of Action” event takes place in multiple locations, starting Saturday, July 26, at 1 p.m. at Winchester Area Churches and Community Food Pantry, 527 E. Greenville Ave., Winchester. Following a 2 p.m. caravan to Richmond, there will be a 2:30 p.m. rally at Middlefork Reservoir, 1750 Sylvan Nook Dr., Richmond, followed by community-building and conversation.
“Whether you’ve been affected by rising healthcare costs, food insecurity, or just want to support your community — you are welcome,” the release said. “Bring your car, bring your signs, bring your stories. Join us as we stand for care, not cuts.”
The event is organized in part by the Richmond Housing and Human Rights Coalition and the Indiana chapter of the Nonviolent Medicaid Army. The release said the rally is part of a larger national grassroots movement organized by a national coalition, Families First, with events happening in all 50 states and including a 60-hour vigil in Washington, D.C. on Sept. 6.
For more information, contact 404-431-3590.
A version of this article appeared in the July 23 2025 print edition of the Western Wayne News.