A recent report from Feeding America highlights the incredible work of Feeding America Riverside San Bernardino (FARSB) and its innovative “Food as Medicine” program. This program, funded by a generous $14.1 million grant from the Elevance Health Foundation, aims to connect food banks with healthcare providers. The goal is simple: to help people with chronic health conditions access nutritious food.
Launched in 2023, this initiative partners FARSB with various healthcare organizations, including Riverside University Health System and the San Bernardino Free Clinic. They focus on a model that screens individuals for food insecurity at healthcare visits, ensuring they receive nourishing, medically tailored meals.
Since its inception, the program has made a significant impact:
- Nearly 15,000 participants have joined.
- Over 3,540 healthy meal boxes have been distributed.
- Many neighbors are now better managing their health conditions.
Carolyn Fajardo, CEO of FARSB, emphasizes the importance of this partnership. She believes that providing healthy food and healthcare together not only supports individuals but also improves community well-being. “Food is essential, just like healthcare,” Fajardo says.
The national report reveals some powerful statistics:
- More than 100,000 individuals identified as food insecure received nutritious food from participating food banks.
- About 70% of those enrolled reported managing a chronic health condition.
- Participants noted improved eating habits and greater confidence in managing their health.
- Those managing diabetes saw an average 1.5% reduction in A1C levels.
This initiative is one of the largest national efforts integrating food access into healthcare systems. It reflects a growing recognition of food’s vital role in health. The 21 food banks involved have customized their programs to fit local communities, offering services like food pantries, mobile distributions, and food prescription vouchers.
As FARSB enters the final year of its grant, it is eager to gather insights on long-term health outcomes. These findings will help shape future food-based health initiatives and promote equity in healthcare.
FARSB’s work exemplifies how food can be a vital tool for dignity and wellness in communities. The collaboration between healthcare and food access is a step toward a healthier future for everyone involved.
To learn more about this initiative, visit FeedingIE.org/healthcare and check out the full national report at FeedingAmerica.org/foodasmedicine2.
