WAYNE COUNTY, PA — The Wayne Memorial Hospital (WMH) In-School Walking Program is off to a great start with a record number of participants this season, the hospital said. 

WMH partners with local school districts to provide indoor heated, secure, and well-lit locations for area residents to go for an evening walk. The program runs for about six months, October 14, 2025 through April 23, 2026 on weeknights, Monday through Thursday, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. 

The hallways are open for walkers at the following schools when school is in session—unless it is cancelled due to weather or other unforeseen developments:

Forest City Regional High School

Damascus, Lakeside and Preston Elementary Schools

Wallenpaupack South Elementary and Wallenpaupack High School

Evergreen and R.D. Wilson Elementary Schools, and Western Wayne Middle/High School

Registrations are still being accepted for the current program. Each participant is required to purchase an identification badge for $5 and sign a liability waiver. Returning walkers need to sign a liability waiver and receive a sticker for 2026. 

For security purposes, you must log in and out each time you go for a walk in the school hallways. 

To get started, call the WMH Community Relations Office at 570/253-8990 or visit www.WMH.org and click on the Community tab, then on Outreach. 

“Walking offers many health benefits,” said Carol Kneier, co-organizer of the program and WMH community relations manager. “It helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke, improves bone strength and balance, and during the long winter months, helps improve your mood.”