Anti-Hunger Programs that Improve Health and Reduce Healthcare Costs

by NYC Food Policy Editor


Poverty and food insecurity, which are closely related, correlate with some of the most serious and costly health problems in the United States. These issues, rarely exist in isolation, as low-income individuals and families are often impacted by many overlapping issues including lack of affordable housing, low wages, unemployment, high medical costs, social isolation, and chronic or acute health problems. Numerous studies have demonstrated that reducing food insecurity can lead to improved health outcomes, a decreased reliance on hospital utilization, and lowered healthcare costs (see HERE, HERE, and HERE).

Below are links to research about a number of anti-hunger programs that have proven to be successful in improving health and reducing healthcare costs.

Produce Prescription Programs

Impact of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program on Healthcare Costs and Food Insecurity

Medically-Tailored Meals

Health Bucks/EBT Spending at Farmers’ Markets

Urban Gardens and Their Relationship with Food Insecurity

School Wellness Policies

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