Anthem BCBS Foundation boosts food banks in VA with $300,000 grant

On September 11, 2024, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Foundation in Virginia announced a $300,000 grant to three food banks in the state to enhance their 'Food as Medicine' initiatives. This funding will be distributed as $100,000 each to the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, Feeding Southwest Virginia, and the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore. The initiative aims to address food insecurity by collaborating with local healthcare partners to screen patients for food needs during medical visits. The 'Food as Medicine' program, part of a broader partnership with Feeding America and Elevance Health Foundation, seeks to connect individuals facing hunger with access to nutritious food options. The food banks will work closely with healthcare organizations, including UVA Dialysis Centers and Carilion Clinic, to create a network that promotes health and well-being among vulnerable populations. This grant follows previous funding of $450,000 received by the food banks, highlighting a sustained commitment to combat food insecurity in Virginia. The initiative recognizes the critical link between access to healthy food and the management of chronic health conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes, which can be exacerbated by poor nutrition. The collaboration is part of a statewide health equity effort led by the Federation of Virginia Food Banks, aiming to improve food access and health outcomes for all Virginians. By strengthening partnerships between food banks and healthcare providers, the program aspires to foster positive health outcomes and enhance the overall charitable food experience in the community.