AUGUSTA COUNTY, Va. (ROCKTOWN NOW) – State leaders visited the Augusta Health Food Pantry this week to see how partnerships between healthcare providers and food banks can improve health outcomes by increasing access to nutritious food.

Delegate Ellen Campbell and State Senator Creigh Deeds were among those who visited the pantry and heard from officials about the program’s impact and potential future expansion. During the tour, officials discussed the program’s impact and explored future expansion.

“Elected officials play a critical role in supporting policies that strengthen food security and health equity,” said Clint Merritt, MD, CPE of Augusta Health. “Through our partnership with the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, we enable our patients, employees, and communities to choose healthier food options and access nutrient-rich foods more easily.”

Michael McKee, CEO of Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, explains that food insecurity is a public health problem.

“We’re ensuring food insecurity is recognized and treated as a public health issue,” McKee said. “This partnership is making a real difference for families across the region.”

The Augusta Health Food Pantry is known as a Food Pharmacy location and is a collaboration between Augusta Health and the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank. It provides patients with medically tailored food through referrals from healthcare providers, helping them prevent and better manage chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease.

Augusta Health’s Food Pantry also obtains most of its fresh produce from the Farm at Augusta Health.