To direct the Secretary of Agriculture to establish and administer a pilot program to provide grants to support Food is Medicine programs, and for other purposes.
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Introduced on November 14, 2024 by Robin L. Kelly
Legislation Details
- Establishes a pilot program to provide grants for Food is Medicine programs, to be administered by the Secretary of Agriculture.
- Grants are awarded on a competitive basis to eligible entities that apply with appropriate information.
- Funds can be used for various activities, including:
- Operating emergency feeding operations.
- Medically tailored grocery packaging or delivery.
- Medically tailored meals and produce prescriptions.
- Evidence-based cooking skills training.
- Promoting dietary intervention and health-related strategies.
- Transportation for program participants.
- Priority for grants is given to entities that:
- Incorporate local and regional foods.
- Include registered dieticians or nutrition professionals.
- The program aims for geographic diversity and equitable treatment of urban, rural, tribal, and territorial communities, while advancing health equity.
- Requires the Secretary to submit two reports to Congress:
- An initial report within 2 years analyzing program efficiency and impact on patient outcomes.
- A final report within 6 years updating the initial findings.
- Reports must include details on program implementation, participant selection criteria, addressed medical issues, strategies for providing healthy food, and the impact of medical nutrition therapy.
- Defines “diet-related diseases” to include conditions like diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and mental illness.
- Defines “Food is Medicine program” as a collaboration between community organizations and healthcare providers to support individuals with diet-related diseases.
- Authorizes $20 million in appropriations for the program for fiscal years 2025 through 2029.
Last updated 12/17/2024