Thornapple Trail Association receives $20,000 grant

Spectrum Health Pennock Foundation approved the Thornapple Trail Association grant request for $20,000 to continue the expansion of the Paul Henry -Thornapple Trail.  The priority of this trail is to bring the community outside, enjoying nature, being proactive in remaining physically fit while they age.  The trail provides recreation for the entire community. Families love to ride or walk on the trail, looking at nature or birding safely away from motorized traffic. Janine Dalman, executive director for Spectrum Health Pennock Foundation stated, “It is important to the Board that we support initiatives that improve the health of the communities served by Pennock Hospital. Obesity reduction is one area that was highlighted in the 2013 Community Health Needs Assessment and a priority for our hospital. Another finding from the assessment was that residents of the county do not have enough access to areas they can bike and walk. The extension of the Paul Henry Trail – Thornapple Trail is one way the Foundation can help Pennock follow its mission and the residents of Barry County be healthy.”