Highmark commits over $170,000 to seven organizations addressing hunger and housing

PHILADELPHIA (December 10, 2024) — Highmark Blue Shield is committed to improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves in southeastern Pennsylvania. During National Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Month in November, Highmark supported seven organizations that are dedicated to combating hunger and homelessness year-round. These investments, made through the Highmark Bright Blue Futures corporate giving and community involvement  program, support vital initiatives providing food security and crucial resources to vulnerable populations.

Highmark’s vision of a world where everyone embraces health requires a holistic community approach that extends beyond the healthcare system. Factors like food insecurity and lack of housing significantly impact health outcomes and a person and family’s ability to be healthy. By supporting this local work, Highmark aims to address social determinants of health and build healthier, more resilient communities.

November’s investments include:

• Share Food Program’s food bank, supporting their ongoing efforts to distribute nearly three million pounds of food monthly to over 600,000 individuals and families across Philadelphia and surrounding counties. Share Food Program's comprehensive approach includes school meal programs, senior food boxes, and innovative food rescue initiatives.
• Metropolitan Area Neighborhood Nutrition Alliance (MANNA) and their medically tailored meal delivery program for approximately 5,600 individuals and families battling serious illnesses. This program ensures clients receive nutritious meals while also providing crucial nutrition education.
• Philabundance’s senior produce boxes program, providing fresh produce to low-income seniors to improve their nutritional intake and overall health.
• Chester County Food Bank and their "Everyday Food for Kids" initiative, offering backpack food packs, school food closets, summer food boxes, and fresh produce markets to ensure children have access to nutritious meals throughout the year.
• Drueding Center’s Green Light Food Pantry, which provides access to high-quality, nutritious food to families in need while educating them on healthy eating habits.
• Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Foundation’s Thanksgiving Dinner program, providing a warm, celebratory meal for inpatient families facing the challenges of a child's illness, including themed activities and goodies to keep them entertained during their stay.
• SELF Inc. and their Self in the City Gala, which raises critical funds for their programs serving diverse populations and empowering personal and community transformation.

"Housing and hunger are inextricably linked to health and well-being," said Ken Lawrence, senior vice president of corporate affairs for Highmark Blue Shield. "These investments reflect our dedication to addressing the social determinants of health that significantly impact the lives of our neighbors. We are proud to partner with these organizations to foster health equity and create a brighter future for all."