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

Cosponsors

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