RUSSELL COUNTY, KY – Russell County Hospital is proud to announce a new partnership with Dry Branch Stock Farm as part of the Food is Medicine Initiative.
Starting this month, the hospital will incorporate Dry Branch’s premium, all-natural beef into its food services, including meals served to patients, staff, and visitors.
To celebrate this milestone and highlight the progress of the Food is Medicine Initiative, Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell will join hospital leadership, including CEO Scott Thompson, and representatives from Dry Branch Stock Farm at Russell County Hospital on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 1:00 PM CST.
Dry Branch Stock Farm raises all-natural beef, pork, chicken, and lamb with a steadfast commitment to quality and tradition. Their livestock are never treated with antibiotics or growth hormones, and the farm oversees every step of production—from raising the animals to processing them in their own facility and delivering premium meats through their retail shops and catering company. Their 80/20 dry-aged ground beef, a standout product, is free of additives and boasts enhanced flavor and texture thanks to the dry-aging process, making it an ideal choice for nutritious, delicious meals.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Dry Branch Stock Farm to bring high-quality, locally sourced beef to our hospital,” said Scott Thompson, CEO of Russell County Hospital. “This collaboration aligns with our mission to support the health of our patients and community, not just through medical care but through wholesome, sustainable food options.”
The Food is Medicine Initiative is a collaborative effort between the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and the Kentucky Hospital Association. It aims to improve health outcomes in the state by integrating healthy, locally grown and produced foods into healthcare settings.
By sourcing beef from Dry Branch Stock Farm, Russell County Hospital is taking a significant step toward that goal while strengthening ties with Kentucky’s agricultural community.
“I’m so proud to see Russell County Hospital and Dry Branch come together as a part of the Food is Medicine Initiative,” said Commissioner Shell. “This partnership exemplifies exactly what we’re working towards – connecting Kentucky’s hardworking farmers with local healthcare providers to deliver fresh, nutritious food straight to patients. It’s a win for our farm families, a win for community health, and a testament to the power of agriculture as a cornerstone of Kentucky’s future.”
