Meridian announces initiative to combat food insecurity

"Meridian is deeply committed to the health and well-being of our members and the communities we serve, and that starts with how we fuel our bodies," said Rutu Ezhuthachan, MD, Meridian Chief Medical Officer. "At Meridian we believe food is medicine. Providing our members with access to farmers markets with fresh fruits and vegetables will help our members to be healthy and happy. We recognize that access to nutritious food is a fundamental component of good health, and we are proud to partner with these local farmers markets to make fresh, affordable produce more accessible in areas where it is needed most."

CHICAGO, IL (Chambana Today) – Meridian Health Plan of Illinois, Inc, announced announced an initiative to combat food insecurity.

The company is a provider of sponsored managed care services and a Centene company . The initiative has them partnering with farmers markets across central and southern Illinois throughout 2025. Meridian will provide access to fresh, affordable produce while promoting healthy eating habits. program includes vouchers for fresh fruits and vegetables, health education materials, and enhanced support for SNAP/Link recipients.

Voucher Program Details:

Meridian members who show their member ID at participating markets will receive $15 in vouchers.
Non-members who visit the Meridian booth will receive $10 in vouchers, while supplies last.
SNAP/Link recipients can double their benefits through the Link Match program, turning $25 in benefits into $50 worth of fresh produce.

Participating Farmers Markets and Dates:

May 17 – Farmers Market of Carbondale
June 17 – The Land Connection Champaign Farmers Market
June 24 – Food Works Mobile Market – Murphysboro
June 25 – Food Works Mobile Market – Marion
June 26 – Food Works Mobile Market – Anna-Jonesboro
July 31 – East St. Louis F.R.E.S.H. Farmers Market
August 16 – Farmers Market of Carbondale
August 28 – East St. Louis F.R.E.S.H. Farmers Market
September 3 – Food Works Mobile Market – Marion
September 18 – Food Works Mobile Market – Anna-Jonesboro
September 23 – Food Works Mobile Market – Murphysboro

“Meridian is deeply committed to the health and well-being of our members and the communities we serve, and that starts with how we fuel our bodies,” said Rutu Ezhuthachan, MD, Meridian Chief Medical Officer. “At Meridian we believe food is medicine. Providing our members with access to farmers markets with fresh fruits and vegetables will help our members to be healthy and happy. We recognize that access to nutritious food is a fundamental component of good health, and we are proud to partner with these local farmers markets to make fresh, affordable produce more accessible in areas where it is needed most.”

Visit ILmeridian.com/events for updates on event dates, locations, and more.