Food is Medicine

Access to nutritious food is a cornerstone of good health. Unfortunately, thousands of Virginians face long-term health challenges simply because they live in communities without consistent access to affordable, nutritious food. The result? Food-insecure Virginians spend an average of $1,539 more in healthcare costs per year.

Our Approach

Our Food Is Medicine approach integrates hunger and healthcare, rooted in listening to people about the needs and assets in their own community. Since 2021, Virginia’s food banks have united to ensure that food-based interventions go beyond just ending hunger.

Flagship programs like the Healthy Pantry Initiative make sure the healthy choice is the easy choice at pantries, and Food Pharmacies enable clinicians to identify need and provide medically tailored groceries at the point of care. We work with advocates and policymakers to break the cycle of hunger and poor health to improve wellbeing.

Why Health Equity?

Adults facing hunger are significantly more likely to experience serious health issues, including:

More likely to suffer from diabetes

Higher rates of cardiovascular disease

Higher risk of anxiety and depression

More likely to experience complications during pregnancy

A food pharmacy guest brings healthy food home. (Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, Verona)

Meet Lauren

“Lauren” is feeding four growing children on a tight budget. Her husband works full-time now but his wages have not kept up with the high cost of living. She cans food to make it last and makes her own bread to save money. Now, Lauren picks up fresh produce at the Augusta Health Food Pantry, where she also receives her healthcare. “It has helped me be able to eat healthier and put my health first. … I always have struggled with eating healthy but when I am given the option that encourages me to follow through.” She’s grateful and is not sure how she would be able to bring fresh produce home to her family otherwise.