Blue Shield of California Launches 'Food as Health' Initiative
Blue Shield of California has launched a new statewide initiative called 'Food as Health,' dedicating $600,000 to seven California-based food security non-profits. The Alameda County Community Food Bank is the first partner, receiving $300,000.
Oakland, Calif. – Blue Shield of California, a non-profit health plan, has announced a new statewide initiative named 'Food as Health.' The program will allocate $600,000 to seven California food security non-profit organizations.
The initiative aims to improve health outcomes and promote equitable access to healthcare by linking healthcare with nutrition. This will be achieved through medically tailored meals, culturally appropriate food resources, family nutrition programs, and other community-based solutions. Blue Shield of California CEO Mike Stuart stated that nutritious food is a cornerstone of good health and that the non-profit health plan has a role in helping people live healthier lives.
The Alameda County Community Food Bank (ACCFB) is the first recipient under this initiative, receiving a multi-year commitment of $300,000. This funding will expand the food bank's 'Food as Medicine' program, which provides medically tailored, home-delivered meals and nutrition education to eligible Medi-Cal enrollees with chronic conditions.
Blue Shield's investment represents the largest corporate sponsorship for the ACCFB's program to date. The goal is to increase the program's reach and strengthen its infrastructure, data collection, and evaluation. Participants receive 12 weeks of medically tailored food, including fresh produce, proteins, and pantry staples, delivered to their homes, along with nutritional education.