The Fresh Farmacy: Fruit and Veggie Prescription Program is a partnership between Local Food Hub and six area health clinics that “prescribes” patients a biweekly supply of fresh fruits and vegetables, grown by Local Food Hub partner farms. The prescriptions include recipes and educational programs that help to encourage home cooking and develop familiarity with new foods. The program seeks to develop a culture of healthy in our community by addressing food access and public health issues.

Click here to watch a short video about our Fresh Farmacy Program!

"Fresh Farmacy and coming to the clinic made me accountable...this is a very encouraging environment" – Fresh Farmacy Patient

 

In 2017, Local Food Hub developed a strategy for expanding the Fresh Farmacy program across the Thomas Jefferson Health District. Together with local health experts, we examined the confluence of food insecurity, socioeconomic status, and personal and community health to pinpoint areas of expansion, potential partners, and resources for expansion.

In 2018, we merged our workplace wellness program with our existing clinic-based program, in order to offer Fresh Farmacy in both venues. Fresh Farmacy: Workplace Wellness Program is offered to area employers as a subscription-based, seasonal share of local fruit and vegetables that is delivered to the workplace. Participants also receive digital recipes, farm profiles, and resources for efficient cooking and eating at home.

The program is free to participants, and is funded by grants and generous community support.

Our Fresh Farmacy: Fruit and Veggie Prescription Program continues in partnership with area clinics, and has been updated to include the delivery of nutrition education including recommended daily intake, portion size, low- and no-salt seasoning strategies, and smart beverage choices.  In 2019, the program is focused on strategic expansion to families with young children. A pilot program will be available to the Women Infants and Children Federal Assistance Program (WIC) in the Southwood community. All program materials will also be available in Spanish. If you are an employer, or a clinic manager interested in collaborating on a Fresh Farmacy program, please contact Portia Boggs or call us at 434-244-3276.

"[Fresh Farmacy changed my health by helping me eat] more greens and vegetables and fruit. I feel better during the day. Instead of [eating] starch and sugar...I can go wash carrots and chew 'em on my porch. I feel a whole lot better. I don't get as hungry as I did." – Fresh Farmacy Patient

Thank you, Local Food Hub supporters!

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