HAGERSTOWN — Rural healthcare and workforce training in Western Maryland are getting a major boost thanks to new state funding.
Hagerstown Community College (HCC) has received a $197,045 grant from the Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund (RMPIF). The fund aims to improve the quality of life in rural regions by 2030, ensuring they meet or exceed statewide living standards while preserving local culture and heritage.
The grant, titled “Growing Rural Futures: Advancing Health and Workforce in Western Maryland,” will support the expansion of HCC’s dental clinic and upgrades to its Medical Laboratory Technician Program.
The project includes facility renovations and the purchase of modern equipment, allowing students to train on state-of-the-art technology. In addition, the grant will fund workforce development initiatives, including new training modules, community outreach programs, and partnerships with local healthcare providers to ensure students gain hands-on experience in real-world settings.
College officials say the improvements will not only enhance educational opportunities but also address critical healthcare shortages in rural communities, ultimately contributing to stronger, healthier local populations.