By Dave Mull, Vincent James, Michael Halligan, and Charles Dennis
According to recent USDA data, the U.S. is witnessing the largest surge in food insecurity since the 2008 recession, affecting 44% more children and 31% more individuals. Additionally, the Map the Meal Gap data from 2021 shows that in Kentucky, 1 in 8 people are unsure about where they’ll get their next meal. Everyone deserves access to nutritious, healthy food, and we must support initiatives that reduce food insecurity and improve the whole health of our communities. Research indicates that good health is inextricably linked to proper nutrition.
Amid a convergence of challenges, from economic disparities to health crises, the issue of food insecurity stands as a reminder of the inequalities that persist in our communities. Yet, during National Nutrition Month, we are reminded that there is hope that emerges when we join forces, combine resources, expertise, and compassion to address complex issues head-on.
When local organizations like Dare to Care, God’s Pantry Food Bank, Feeding America Kentucky’s Heartland and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield unite, we can make a profound impact to reduce food insecurity and improve overall health across Kentucky. Our ongoing partnerships across our communities underscore a fundamental truth: the fight against hunger requires collective action and unwavering dedication. As need increases and government support declines, these partnerships are more important than ever.
Our innovative partnerships tackle the intersection of hunger and health by helping individuals reach optimal well-being through good nutrition, accessibility, and affordability. We are breaking down barriers and creating innovative solutions that leave no one hungry or malnourished. Together, we’re working to cultivate a healthier, more equitable Kentucky where everyone can thrive, reach their full potential, and enjoy a life of dignity and well-being, regardless of their location.
- Dare to Care: The Mobile Pantry initiative, a collaboration between Dare to Care and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, has significantly improved the health of seniors and families in the most densely populated regions of Kentucky. Over 1.9 million pounds of fresh produce have been distributed to more than 129,000 residents across approximately 900 Mobile Pantry stops. The initiative focuses on “food deserts” with high concentrations of elderly people that have limited access to healthy, nutritious food. By providing fresh fruits and vegetables, this program has been instrumental in promoting good health and accessibility across our Kentucky communities. For 54 years, Dare to Care has been a leader in Kentuckiana’s efforts to fight hunger through programs targeting the most vulnerable in our community.
- God’s Pantry Food Bank: To maximize food resources in underserved areas, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield continues to work with God’s Pantry Food Bank to enhance their Mobile Pantry Program, enabling direct distributions for Kentuckians experiencing food insecurity in Central and Eastern Kentucky. The Mobile Pantry Program provides monthly food deliveries in 20 counties with limited food pantry resources. This targeted approach helps bridge the gap between the demand for food and the available resources in these underserved areas. In 2023 alone, the Mobile Pantry Program distributed 1.7 million pounds of food.
- Feeding America Kentucky’s Heartland: With support from Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, the “Serving up Fresh” program ensures access to fresh, nutritious food for local individuals and families across 42 Kentucky counties. This innovative delivery food model combats food insecurity and promotes accessibility, distributing over 2 million pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables to Kentucky families.
We collectively believe food is medicine, and consistent access to nutritious food is crucial for maintaining health. Through our programs and partnerships, we are taking crucial steps to prevent diet-related chronic illnesses and promote a healthier future for all Kentuckians where everyone has access to nutritious food, and our dedication is unwavering.
These collaborative efforts underscore the importance of unity, resource-sharing, and collective action in addressing large-scale societal challenges. Together, we can drive lasting change in our fight against hunger and health disparities.
Vincent James is Dare to Care President & CEO, Michael Halligan is God’s Pantry Food Bank CEO, Charles Dennis is Feeding America Kentucky’s Heartland (FAKH) Executive Director and Dave Mull is Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield’s Regional Vice President of Medicare.
