04/2026
The Roots of Change white paper “Bridging Regional Food Systems and Healthcare” argues that improving public health requires integrating food systems with healthcare through a “Food is Medicine” approach. It explains that disruptions like climate events, economic instability, and supply chain weaknesses worsen food insecurity and health inequities, especially in low-income communities.
The report highlights real-world programs in California that show how linking healthcare with food access—such as produce prescriptions and grocery support—can improve both nutrition security and health outcomes.A central message is that emergency food responses and long-term healthcare strategies should be connected rather than treated as separate systems.
The paper recommends three main actions: strengthening community-based organizations, integrating local and regional food into healthcare systems, and investing in local food infrastructure to improve access and resilience.Overall, it presents a policy roadmap for building a more equitable, resilient food system that supports better health outcomes while also strengthening local economies and communities.
Read full report here at Roots of Change
