United Hospital Center Donates $25,000 to the Bridgeport Farmers and Makers Market, Inc., to Support 2026 Season and Community Wellness

Bridgeport, W.Va. – United Hospital Center (UHC) is proud to announce a $25,000 contribution to the Bridgeport Farmers and Makers Market, Inc., (BFM2) to support its upcoming 2026 season. This significant donation underscores UHC's ongoing commitment to community health and wellness initiatives, ensuring continued access to fresh, local produce and educational resources for residents of North Central West Virginia.

The check was presented by Dr. David F. Hess, President & CEO of UHC, and gratefully received by Perris Reed, market manager of the BFM2.

This partnership reinforces a shared goal of creating a vibrant community gathering place and promoting healthy lifestyles, a core part of UHC's community initiatives. The funds will support essential market operations and enhance programming. BFM2 serves as a crucial platform for connecting local farmers and artisans with consumers, thereby strengthening the local economy.

"Bridgeport is a beacon for health, fitness, and wellness in the state of West Virginia," said Dr. Hess. "Our continued support of the Bridgeport Farmers and Makers Market is a natural extension of UHC's mission to improve the health of our community members, offering a consistent environment for families to access healthy food and learn about wellness".

Perris Reed expressed gratitude for the contribution, highlighting its impact on the market's sustainability and reach. "This generous donation from United Hospital Center ensures we can continue to provide high-quality, local options to our patrons in the 2026 season," said Reed. "It helps us expand our programming and makes healthy living more accessible to everyone in the area, while providing infrastructure to grow the market".

BFM2, which combines the traditional market experience with a focus on overall wellness, is a key component of the collaborative efforts between UHC and the BFM2.

Pictured left:  Russ Plywaczynski, CFO at UHC, BFM2 Board Member; David F. Hess, CEO at UHC; Dr. Mark Povroznik, Vice President of Quality/Chief Quality Officer Chairman of Infection Control at UHC; and Perris Reed, Market Manager of BFM2