Maryland Food is Medicine Makes a Stop on the Lower Eastern Shore

SNOW HILL, Md.- Maryland Food is Medicine made a stop on the Lower Eastern Shore on Thursday, Oct. 8th, to discuss how the program can fit local needs, and eating habits of the community.

The program aims to provide no-cost “Medically Tailored Meals” for eligible participants. The programs State Officer, Ben Marcus, gave a presentation to local health department representatives, to discuss ideas on how they can tailor the program, to the needs of residents in the counties.

“The general idea behind Food is Medicine is to make sure that people are being supported in their health journey, whether or not they’re living with a chronic health condition, through food.” Said Marcus.

The presentation today discussed potential roadblocks surrounding cultural barriers, distribution, staffing, and education. The state looks to get feedback from local health departments to meet these needs, and provide healthy “Medically Tailored Meals”.

“So what we really hope to do through this particular initiative, is not only support people’s health specifically, but also address issues around food insecurity that people might be facing.” Said Marcus.

Worcester County Health Officer Rebecca Jones says the collaborative discussion was helpful for both sides.

“What is the intent, the timeline, and then giving them the ability to make public comment, and how they feel that, the program must be developed and implemented, giving that local voice and perspective.” Said Jones. “I think help informs the process.”

For more on the program, and to check if you qualify, visit the website