Nourishing Wake Delivers Fresh Food—and Hope—to Families Facing Health Challenges

WAKE COUNTY, NC — A new initiative is transforming the way Wake County supports residents living with chronic health conditions. Nourishing Wake, launched in partnership with NourishedRx, is now delivering free, locally sourced fresh food twice a month to more than 1,000 vulnerable households—bridging the gap between nutrition and public health.

Food as Medicine: A Lifeline for Families in Need

For many families managing diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic conditions, accessing nutritious meals is a constant struggle. Nourishing Wake takes a bold “food-as-medicine” approach, connecting eligible residents with the food their health demands.

“Access to healthy food is not just a matter of choice—it’s a necessity,” said Wake County Commissioner Vickie Adamson. “Through Nourishing Wake, we’re ensuring that more residents get the fresh, nutritious food they need to lead healthier lives.”

How It Works: Healthcare Referrals Meet Local Food

Participants are referred through federally qualified health clinics, where healthcare providers identify patients who would benefit from improved nutrition. Once enrolled, families receive biweekly deliveries of fresh produce and protein sourced from North Carolina farms.

“An estimated 11.6% of Americans are diabetic, and nutrition plays a critical role in managing the disease,” said Scot McCray, CEO of Advance Community Health. “We’re proud to help connect patients with food that supports both their health and well-being.”

Local Food, Local Impact

All food is sourced through Farmer Foodshare, a Durham-based nonprofit that builds connections between local farmers and communities experiencing food insecurity. This ensures that the food is not only fresh, but also culturally relevant—while boosting the regional economy.

“At NourishedRx, we believe access to nutritious food is fundamental to good health,” said Lauren Driscoll, founder and CEO. “By delivering food directly to homes, we’re breaking down barriers and building a stronger, more equitable food system.”

Part of a Broader Vision

Nourishing Wake is a cornerstone of the 2023 Wake County Food Security Plan, aligning with the county’s broader goals to address food insecurity, health disparities, and systemic inequities.

By meeting families where they are—literally and figuratively—the program promotes health, dignity, and economic resilience across Wake County.

Editor’s Note: Images used in this article are for illustrative purposes only and do not depict actual participants or deliveries from the Nourishing Wake program.