Food Bank of the Rockies’ Food for Health Program (formerly the Healthcare Box Program) started in 2022 with the goal of connecting people experiencing food insecurity and chronic health issues with weekly, nutrient-dense, medically tailored food boxes. In fiscal year 2023, the program partnered with five healthcare centers in the Denver metro area and provided 225 participants with weekly food boxes and fresh produce for one year.
Food for Health is designed to support the nutritional security of community members living with chronic diseases such as pre-diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension. It supports communities by increasing access to nutritious foods and bridging the gap between healthcare and community food systems in support of improved health for individuals living with chronic disease.
Each food box received by participants includes nutrient-dense, heart-healthy, and diabetes-friendly items inspired by the USDA MyPlate guidelines. A combination of fruits, starchy and non-starchy vegetables, lean animal and plant-based protein, grains, and dairy are provided in every box.
We strive to provide fiber-rich, low-sodium, and no-sugar-added items as much as possible. A variety of fresh produce, dried herbs and spices, and recipes are included throughout the program to support flavor preferences and cooking styles. By providing mostly whole, unseasoned foods, our intention is to provide flexibility for the creation of culturally relevant meals and snacks by each participant.
Sam, a Food for Health participant (left), is a patient at Denver Indian Health and Family Services receiving treatment for his diabetes. With a daughter to care for, even with SNAP benefits, Sam shared that food expenses have been a challenge. His medical provider connected him with the Food for Health Program to help with both his diabetes and lessen the burden of food insecurity.
“We’ve been living just off of the bare necessities lately, and this really helps to prepare meals and stuff on a weekly basis. Sometimes I have leftovers and I use up my food stamps and I make a meal out of all that,” he shared.
Food Bank of the Rockies continues to grow and improve Food for Health. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the Food for Health program page.
