Food Bank's Health Partnership Model Draws National Praise

July 18, 2026 - 19:10

A new national report is highlighting the success of a unique partnership between a local food bank and healthcare providers in the Inland Empire. The program, known as FoodRx, is being praised for its direct impact on helping residents eat better and manage chronic health conditions without leaving their communities.

Operated by the Food Bank of Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, the model goes beyond simply handing out groceries. It connects patients who are food insecure and diagnosed with diet-related illnesses like diabetes or hypertension to a steady supply of fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Doctors write "prescriptions" for healthy food, which patients can fill at specific distribution sites.

The report, issued by a national health policy group, calls the program a scalable solution for addressing the link between hunger and poor health outcomes. Organizers say the approach saves money by reducing emergency room visits and helps people take control of their health with dignity. For many families in the region, the partnership means they no longer have to choose between buying medicine and buying nutritious food. The model is now being studied by other food banks across the country looking to replicate its success.