Episcopal Health Services Tackles Food Insecurity, Promotes Healthy Eating with Health Bucks and Food Distribution

Far Rockaway, New York, September 11, 2024 — Episcopal Health Services (EHS) is proud to announce its participation in the Health Bucks program, supported by the New York City Department of Health and Hygiene for the third consecutive year. Led by EHS’s dedicated Population Health team, this initiative underscores the health system’s commitment to addressing food insecurity and promoting healthy eating habits through community outreach programs.

The Health Bucks program provides free two-dollar coupons that can be used at local farmer’s markets to purchase fresh fruit and vegetables. According to the NYC Department of Mental Health and Hygiene, for every $2 spent at a farmer’s market using SNAP on an EBT card, residents can receive $2 in Health Bucks, up to $10 per day. Health Bucks are distributed to community members as an incentive to participate in nutrition education and other health-related activities.

“The purpose of this program is to address food insecurity and encourage healthier food choices,” said Preet Kukreja, MBA, MHA, FAPM, Director of Population Health at Episcopal Health Services. “This is a vital component of improving overall health outcomes.”

In addition to distributing Health Bucks during their visits to local farmer’s markets, EHS’ Population Health team offers A1C screenings, food demonstrations and nutritional counseling.

EHS’ commitment to addressing food insecurity extends beyond its participation in the Health Bucks program. Every Thursday, EHS teams up with The Campaign Against Hunger for a fresh food giveaway at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital to help address food insecurity on the Rockaway Peninsula.

“These initiatives are part of our broader mission to ensure the community has access to improve overall health outcomes,” said Renee Hastick-Motes, SVP & Chief External Affairs Officer at Episcopal Health Services. “We understand the critical relationship between social determinants and physical health. At EHS, we are committed to delivering comprehensive healthcare to the communities we serve, and we are excited that health bucks is an added resource.”