Every day, families in our communities face the challenge of food insecurity and limited healthy options. With the support of an Elevance Foundation grant, Union Health & Lugar Center for Rural Health began a deeper exploration of food insecurity and the role of food as medicine in the Wabash Valley. Building on that foundation, Union Health continues to address food insecurity on a broader scale—through emergency food access, food-as-medicine programs and nutrition education that empowers healthier living.
As part of this larger commitment, Union Health Terre Haute is proud to announce the launch of its new Food Locker Program, made possible through a partnership with the Lugar Center for Rural Health, Anthem Foundation, Catholic Charities of Terre Haute, and Union Health Foundation. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is September 30th at 1 PM on Union Campus Building 2, old ER entrance t o celebrate this important milestone.
The Food Locker Program provides emergency food bags to patients screening as food insecure. The initial startup was funded by a generous grant from the Elevance Health Foundation, helping bring this important resource to life.
According to Feeding America 2023 data, 18.3% of Vigo County residents experience food insecurity (compared to 15.1% statewide). Union Health’s own screenings confirm the urgency. Hundreds of patients screening positive and participating in food recovery programs.
The new Food Locker, a 16-door ambient storage and distribution system provided by Click N Collect, will allow Union Health case managers to securely provide patients with emergency food bags at discharge. Patients identified as food insecure during hospital intake will be connected with the program, ensuring they leave with immediate access to nutritious food for themselves and their families. The patient is given a code and can access their specialized food bag at their convenience upon discharge.
“Food security is one of the most significant social determinants of health in our community,” said Jack Hill, COO of Union Health System. “Patients who struggle to access nutritious food often face greater challenges in their recovery and overall well-being. Thanks to the support of our partners and the Elevance Health Foundation’s generous grant funding, Union Health can provide immediate access to emergency food bags, helping patients not only recover from their medical needs but also thrive once they return home. This program represents a meaningful step toward addressing health disparities and supporting the overall wellness of our community.”
Frontline case managers see the impact of food insecurity every day. Brianna Love, Perinatal Navigator shared: “It’s heartbreaking to discharge patients who don’t know where their next meal will come from. Just the other day, a patient who had just given birth and was later readmitted for Postpartum Hypertension was provided two food bags to take home to her family of 5. This helps ease their struggles and provide some immediate relief. With the Food Locker, we can make sure patients leave with nutritious food for themselves and their families. This program is already making a real difference in people’s lives.”
Union Health remains committed to addressing the root causes of health disparities and improving outcomes for all members of the community. The Food Locker is just one step in a larger initiative to ensure patients and families have access to nutritious food.
For those interested in supporting these efforts, gifts to the Healthier Communities Fund at Union Health Foundation help strengthen food-as-medicine programs, expand emergency food access, and provide vital nutrition education. Together, we can ensure that nourishing food is within reach. DONATE HERE
To learn more about the Union Health Foodlocker program contact Heather Dalton Miklozek, PhD at 812-238-8163.