Merced County

Feeding Merced County: Connecting Local Harvests to Local Tables

Merced County, nestled in the heart of California’s fertile Central Valley, is a region renowned for its thriving agricultural industry. The county’s fields are abundant with a diverse array of crops, from almonds and tomatoes to sweet melons and grapes, contributing significantly to the state’s agricultural output. However, despite the bounty that surrounds them, many families in Merced County face the harsh reality of food insecurity, struggling to access the very produce that grows in their backyard. Project FoodBox is committed to bridging this gap, ensuring that every resident of Merced County has access to the fresh, wholesome food necessary for a healthy life. Through this initiative, we aim to nourish not just bodies, but also the community as a whole, fostering a brighter, healthier future for all.

Merced County’s Agricultural Heritage

Merced County’s history is deeply rooted in its rich agricultural landscape. As a key player in California’s Central Valley, the county has earned a reputation for its productive farmlands that contribute significantly to the state’s agricultural success. Expansive fields of crops like almonds, dairy, and tomatoes stretch across the county, symbolizing a legacy of hard work and commitment to cultivating the land. Merced County’s diverse population, which brings together a variety of cultural traditions, shares a common appreciation for fresh, locally-grown produce. Farmers markets thrive as vibrant community hubs, and the local culinary scene showcases the bounty of the region’s agriculture. Yet, despite this agricultural richness, many residents of Merced County still face food insecurity, underscoring the urgent need to improve access to the very produce that defines their community’s heritage.

Join Us in the Fight Against Hunger

Contact Now

Addressing Food Waste and Nourishing Merced County

Food waste is a nationwide challenge, with nearly 40% of all food produced in the U.S. going uneaten, while millions, including 4.7 million adults and 2.0 million children in California’s low-income households, struggle with hunger, as highlighted by Nourish California. Merced County, renowned for its agricultural productivity, epitomizes the paradox where abundance and scarcity exist side by side. Despite the county’s extensive farmlands that contribute to feeding the nation, economic inequalities and logistical challenges create “food deserts” within the region, where access to fresh, nutritious food is a daily struggle for many. The high cost of living further compounds this issue, forcing numerous families to opt for less healthy alternatives. Bridging this gap is more than a moral imperative; it’s an essential investment in the health and future of Merced County, ensuring that everyone can benefit from the fresh, wholesome food grown in their own community.

Nourishment for Mind & Body

Imagine a Merced County where every resident thrives on the rich agricultural bounty of the Central Valley. A community nourished by a diverse array of fresh fruits and vegetables is one empowered to reach its highest potential. Healthy food is the cornerstone of our well-being, fueling not just our bodies, but also our minds and spirits, paving the way for a brighter future. Project FoodBox envisions a Merced where every family has access to nutritious food, where children develop healthy eating habits from a young age, and where seniors can enjoy the fresh produce they need to lead active and fulfilling lives. Envision people from all walks of life in Merced County coming together over shared meals, celebrating the diversity and richness of their community. This collective experience not only nurtures individual health but also strengthens the social fabric of Merced County, fostering unity and a deep sense of belonging. By ensuring that everyone has access to healthy food, we are not just meeting immediate needs; we are making a lasting investment in the future of Merced County.

Join Us in Supporting Our Community

Visit our website at Project FoodBox to learn how we rescue food and combat hunger in Merced County. Together, let’s work towards a hunger-free Merced! Help us spread the word and become part of the solution by turning Merced’s agricultural abundance into nourishment for all. Let’s change the narrative of Merced County, transforming it from a place of contrasts into a community where prosperity is shared, ensuring a healthier, brighter future for everyone. Let’s cultivate a county where the rich agricultural heritage of Merced is reflected on every table, overflowing with fresh, nutritious food for all.

Merced County Many Stops

Henderson Park

McConnell State Recreation Area

Flanagan Park

Merced National Wildlife Refuge

Fahrens Park

Merced Bridge

FAQ and Form

What is Project Food Box?

Project FoodBox is a medically tailored grocery delivery program that provides fresh, nutritious food to patients as part of their healthcare journey. We work with healthcare providers to ensure food supports treatment plans and health outcomes.

How does Project Food Box work?

Patients are referred to Project FoodBox by their healthcare provider or plan. Once enrolled, eligible individuals receive regular deliveries of fresh produce and other nutritious items tailored to their specific health needs.

Who is eligible to receive a Project FoodBox?

Eligibility depends on your health insurance provider, care plan, and medical condition. Typically, individuals managing chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, or hypertension may qualify through a Medi-Cal CalAIM referral.

What does “medically tailored” mean?

“Medically tailored” refers to food that is selected and portioned based on a person’s specific health condition, dietary restrictions, and nutritional needs — all designed to support clinical outcomes and overall wellness.

What types of food are included in a Project FoodBox?

Each box includes a variety of fresh produce, whole grains, and other nutrient-rich items. The selection may vary based on the season and availability, but all items are chosen with health and freshness in mind.

Can I choose what goes in my box?

Customization depends on your care plan and provider. While some flexibility may be available, the contents are generally selected to meet medical and nutritional guidelines that support your specific health goals.

Translate »