October 22, 2024 – Families continue to feel the squeeze at the checkout line, and the cost of making healthy food choices adds another layer of strain to already stretched budgets. The need for relief is tremendous, and that’s why the partnership between Feeding America, Kentucky’s Heartland (FAKH) and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Medicare in Kentucky (Anthem) through the Serving Up Fresh program is more critical than ever. This program makes fresh, nutritious food more accessible to local families, helping them to maintain healthy diets even in the face of stubbornly high food costs.
The partnership between Anthem and FAKH helps Kentuckians access fresh fruits and vegetables, especially during non-growing seasons when produce becomes less affordable. Since its launch in 2019, Serving Up Fresh had distributed over 3.8 million pounds of healthy food to communities across Kentucky’s Heartland, closing nutrition gaps and improving health outcomes.
Recently, volunteers from Anthem and FAKH gathered at River Lake Church in Barren County to distribute fresh produce, reaching nearly 500 families. Recipients received an assortment of fresh produce, including apples, carrots, onions, and potatoes, along with pantry staples, enabling them to prepare balanced meals.
“We understand that the rising cost of food is making it harder for families to put fresh, healthy meals on the table,” said Charles Dennis, Executive Director of Feeding America, Kentucky’s Heartland. “Our partnership with Anthem is crucial in addressing this issue. Through the Serving Up Fresh program, we’re able to provide vital nutrition to our neighbors facing hunger, helping them to maintain their health and well-being even in difficult times.”
A recent study by the Congressional Joint Economic Committee found that the average Kentucky household spends $140 more on food per month now than in 2021, adding financial strain for many. Serving Up Fresh helps bridge the gap for families struggling to afford nutritious food essential for long-term health.
“Through programs like Serving Up Fresh, we’re addressing the critical connection between nutrition and health. Anthem serves a diverse range of communities across Kentucky, including older adults, people with disabilities, and those with various social, behavioral, and physical health needs,” said Dave Mull, Medicare Market President for Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Kentucky. “We all need access to healthy food; it helps manage chronic conditions, improve overall well-being, and support better health outcomes. Our mission is to build healthier lives and stronger communities and through our partnership with FAKH, we’re able to make it happen. Events like our volunteer day at River Lake Church are a great reminder of our collective impact and just how enjoyable it is to come together and help our neighbors.”
Together through the Serving Up Fresh program, Anthem and FAKH are building healthier lives and stronger communities, and reinforcing the belief that nutritious food should be accessible to everyone.
About Anthem Medicare: Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is the trade name of Anthem Health Plans of Kentucky, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. ANTHEM is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Additional information about Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Kentucky is available at www.anthem.com. Also, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/anthemBCBS and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AnthemBlueCrossBlueShield.
