Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New York has announced a contribution of more than $60,000 to support more than 32 food distribution events across New York State, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to community health and food security. The initiative, developed in partnership with The Campaign Against Hunger (TCAH) and Food Bank For New York City, is designed to provide immediate relief to families struggling to afford nutritious food—particularly during the holiday season, when financial pressures and food insecurity often peak.
The food distribution events, which run through December 23, will take place at Anthem Community Service Centers in all five boroughs as well as select churches located in Suffolk and Westchester counties. With rising grocery prices, economic instability, and increasing pressure on food assistance providers, the timing of this initiative is especially significant. For thousands of New Yorkers, these events will offer a vital source of healthy food at a time of year when many households experience the greatest need.
Strengthening Food Access for New Yorkers in Need
Dr. Melony Samuels, founder and CEO of The Campaign Against Hunger, emphasized the broader impact of Anthem’s support, noting that the effort is about more than providing temporary relief.
“Anthem’s investment helps us do more than distribute food. It helps us advance food equity for New Yorkers who are too often overlooked,” Dr. Samuels said. “By ensuring families have access to fresh, nutritious foods, especially during the holidays, this partnership strengthens our communities and reinforces the belief that everyone deserves a fair chance at a healthy, dignified life.”
In recent years, the challenges facing food-insecure families have grown more complex. Grocery prices have climbed, supply chain disruptions have affected availability of essential goods, and community food organizations have reported increased demand. Many New Yorkers—especially seniors, low-income households, single parents, and individuals living in food deserts—have struggled to consistently access nutritious foods. Food banks and pantries throughout the region are working tirelessly to meet rising need, but many continue to experience shortages of both funding and supplies.
Anthem’s new funding aims to help bridge these gaps by increasing the availability of fresh produce, pantry staples, and nutrition education, thereby helping families maintain better health despite economic challenges. The initiative is part of a comprehensive strategy to support the health of Anthem members and the wider New York community.
What Each Distribution Event Provides
Each distribution event supported by the donation will supply 200 bags filled with a combination of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and non-perishable items. Across more than 32 events, this will result in thousands of bags of food reaching households who need them most.
The focus on fresh, nutritious food aligns with growing awareness of the connection between diet and long-term health outcomes. Access to healthy food can help reduce the risk of chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and obesity. However, for many vulnerable communities, affordability and availability remain significant barriers. Anthem’s support helps alleviate some of these challenges by bringing high-quality food directly to neighborhoods where residents live and work.
Supporting Innovation in Community Nutrition
One of the standout components of the initiative is its support for TCAH’s Fresh Vibes Market, an innovative model that combines food distribution with a market-style experience and nutrition education. Rather than simply handing out pre-packed items, Fresh Vibes Market locations allow individuals and families to select from a variety of fresh ingredients—much like a small grocery store. This approach promotes dignity, choice, and autonomy while ensuring participants receive foods they are comfortable preparing and eager to eat.
At the Fresh Vibes Market, visitors can access produce, grains, healthy proteins, and essential pantry items, but they can also learn new ways to prepare meals on a budget. Nutrition educators provide guidance on healthy cooking, portion control, creative meal planning, and strategies for stretching food dollars without sacrificing quality. The combination of fresh food and educational resources empowers families to make informed choices and build long-term healthy habits.
Anthem’s Perspective: Food as a Foundation of Health
Dr. Mark Levy, President and CEO of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Medicaid in New York, underscored the deep connection between food and overall well-being in announcing the initiative.
“For nearly a decade, Anthem has been proud to stand alongside The Campaign Against Hunger in the effort to expand access to nutritious food for New Yorkers,” Dr. Levy said. “We know that food is deeply connected to health, and this partnership helps bring the ‘Food as Medicine’ idea to life by making healthier foods more accessible in the very communities we serve. During the holidays and beyond, these efforts help families eat better, feel better, and live healthier lives.”
The concept of “Food as Medicine” has gained considerable traction among health organizations nationwide. It recognizes that preventive health care begins with access to nutritious food and that addressing food insecurity can significantly reduce medical costs, hospitalizations, and chronic disease complications. By investing in food distribution and educational initiatives, Anthem is actively working to support healthier lifestyles and reduce long-term health disparities across underserved communities.
A Long-Term Commitment to Community Health
The upcoming series of holiday distribution events is the latest chapter in Anthem’s ongoing partnership with The Campaign Against Hunger, which has spanned nearly a decade. During this time, Anthem has supported numerous programs that enhance food access, promote nutrition education, and address the underlying social drivers of health.
From mobile food pantries to community garden initiatives, Anthem and TCAH have collaborated on a variety of efforts designed to support long-term community well-being. Their work has benefited thousands of families, helping them overcome barriers to accessing fresh food and providing educational resources that promote healthier living.
This year’s effort also includes collaboration with Food Bank For New York City, one of the largest and most influential hunger-relief organizations in the region. By working with trusted partners embedded in local neighborhoods, Anthem aims to ensure that assistance reaches families efficiently and equitably.
Building Healthier Communities Beyond the Holidays
While holiday giving programs are often seasonal, Anthem’s investment is part of a broader, year-round strategy to improve health outcomes by addressing the societal conditions that influence them. Limited access to nutritious food—driven by factors such as poverty, unemployment, high living costs, and lack of affordable grocery options—can contribute to a cycle of poor health. Anthem’s partnership approach aims to disrupt that cycle by putting healthy options within reach for more New Yorkers.
By supporting community-based food providers, investing in innovative distribution models, and integrating nutrition education with hands-on support, Anthem is helping lay the foundation for stronger, more resilient communities. The continued collaboration with TCAH and Food Bank For New York City highlights how strategic partnerships can amplify impact and create sustainable change.
As the holiday season unfolds, thousands of families across New York will benefit from these food distribution events—receiving not just essential groceries but also the reassurance that their community stands with them. Anthem’s ongoing commitment serves as a reminder that improving health begins with meeting basic needs and ensuring every individual has the opportunity to live with dignity, health, and hope.
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