A box of fresh produce every two weeks. At no cost.
For eligible Waldorf adults living with high blood pressure, that’s what the new Charles County ProduceRx – Food is Medicine Program will provide over six months.
The program aims to enroll 1,000 adults age 18 or older who live in Waldorf’s 20602 ZIP code and have hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure. Enrolled participants will receive 13 boxes of fresh fruits and vegetables, along with nutrition education and support for managing their condition.
The Maryland Department of Health awarded Deep Launching, Inc. $1 million to lead the program. LifeStyles of Maryland worked with Deep Launching, the Charles County Health Department and other partners to apply for the grant and will help put the program into action with support from the ENOUGH Initiative.
“This important program represents a significant investment in improving the health and well-being of Charles County residents living with hypertension and experiencing food insecurity,” said Masada Roberson, President of Deep Launching, Inc.
Deep Launching will work with healthcare providers, local farmers and community organizations to reach residents. Participating healthcare providers will refer potentially eligible patients, and Deep Launching will confirm eligibility and coordinate enrollment. Clinical partners will follow participants’ blood pressure and progress as appropriate.
“When you’re managing a chronic health condition, getting fresh, nutritious food on a regular basis can be a challenge,” said Sandy Washington, Chief Executive Officer of LifeStyles of Maryland. “We’re glad to work with Deep Launching and local partners to make it easier for Waldorf residents to get that food and have the support to make it part of their routine.”
Residents interested in learning more, and healthcare providers interested in becoming referral partners, can visit deeplaunching.org. Participation is subject to eligibility and clinical referral requirements.
Across Maryland, the ENOUGH Initiative supports communities in developing their own solutions to child poverty. LifeStyles serves as the initiative’s Community Quarterback in Charles County.
That means bringing local organizations together, helping them agree on priorities and coordinating their work. With ProduceRx, that collaboration will help make fresh food a regular part of life for more Waldorf residents.
Learn more about the ENOUGH Initiative in Charles County.
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