Montgomery County to Celebrate National Public Health Week, April 6–12, With Free Community Events

For Immediate Release: Wednesday, April 1, 2026

Montgomery County will recognize National Public Health Week (NPHW), from Monday, April 6, through Sunday, April 12, by focusing on the programs, partnerships, and everyday work that help residents stay healthy.

Led by the County's Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and community partners under the theme, "Ready. Set. Action!," the week will spotlight efforts to prevent disease, improve access to care, and reduce health disparities across the County.

"Public Health Week is an opportunity to appreciate our public health employees and make sure our residents have access to resources to live healthier," said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. "I thank our Department of Health and Human Services and nonprofit partners for all they do to prevent illness, respond to crises, and make sure people can get the care they need. I encourage residents, families, and communities to attend a Public Health Week event and utilize the resources we provide throughout the year."

Throughout the week, the County will highlight key priorities, including mental health, aging, emergency preparedness, and community-based care. Residents are encouraged to take part in events that offer practical information and direct engagement with public health professionals.

"As we observe National Public Health Week, we aren't just looking back at how far we've come; we are looking forward to the future of wellness," said County Health Officer Dr. Kisha Davis. "Our theme, 'Ready. Set. Action!,' reminds us that public health is the invisible shield that protects our families. This week, we honor the dedicated public health workers who show up for us every day to advocate for policies and practices that promote good health for all. By investing in prevention and sustainable infrastructure now, we are building a stronger, more equitable Montgomery County for generations to come."

Featured Events

Climate Change and Mental Health (Virtual)
Noon-1 p.m. on Monday, April 6.
A discussion on how climate-related stress impacts mental health and what individuals and communities can do to build resilience.
Register for the Event

Walk with a Doc
10:30-11 a.m. on Saturday, April 11.
Location: Holy Cross Hospital, 1500 Forest Glen Road, Silver Spring
Join County Health Officer Dr. Kisha Davis for a 30-minute guided walk along Sligo Creek and a conversation about the importance of physical activity.
Register for the Event

Planning Ahead for Solo Aging
9:30-11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, April 15.
Location: Silver Spring Civic Building, The Great Hall, 1 Veterans Place, Silver Spring
A workshop focused on planning for future care needs, with guidance on decision-making and documentation.
Register for the Event

CPR and Naloxone Training Event
1-3 p.m. on Sunday, April 19.
Location: Public Safety Training Academy, 8751 Snouffer School Road, Gaithersburg
Hands-on training in CPR and naloxone administration for residents ages 12 and older.
Register for the Event

Additional programming will be offered through Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) and the African American Health Program (AAHP).

• MCPL will feature a curated National Public Health Week book list and host health-related programs for residents of all ages.
• AAHP will host free health and wellness events at churches across Montgomery County throughout the week. Activities will include health screenings, guest speakers, and resources for individuals and families.

Montgomery County's public health work is grounded in prevention, data-driven decision-making, and strong community partnerships. Through initiatives like Healthy Montgomery, the County brings together healthcare providers, nonprofits, and residents to improve health outcomes and ensure services reach those who need them most.

National Public Health Week is led by the American Public Health Association and is observed each year to recognize the role of public health in strengthening communities.

For more information, visit Montgomery County DHHS online or follow DHHS on X and Facebook, and Healthy Montgomery on X and Instagram.

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