Central Health Seeks Innovative Partners to Tackle Food Access Challenges

AUSTIN – Central Health, Travis County’s public hospital district, is currently accepting proposals from community partners to take part in its major initiative to improve food access and nutrition support for county residents.

Currently, Central Health is seeking innovative approaches in three distinct program areas that can ease food security challenges and improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations. As an urban Texas hospital district, Central Health provides access to health care for Travis County residents with low income (at or below 200% of the federal poverty level — around $30,000 for one person, $60,000 for a family of four).

“This comprehensive program represents Central Health’s commitment to addressing one of the most fundamental aspects of healthcare – access to nutritious food,” said Megan Cermak, Central Health’s director of public health strategy, policy, & disaster response. “By combining medically tailored meals, mobile food services, and employment opportunities, we’re creating a sustainable approach to fighting food insecurity in our community.”

Three Ways To Move the Needle

Proposals are due by February 18 that address each of the three components of the initiative:

• A medically tailored meal delivery service that will provide weekly meals to approximately 600 eligible homebound and/or transportation-challenged patients, ensuring that individuals with specific health conditions receive proper nutrition aligned with their medical needs. The meals will be culturally appropriate and designed in collaboration with Central Health dieticians.
• A “food farmacy” program will establish mobile food pantries at Central Health locations throughout Travis County. These mobile units will serve at least 65 patients per event, offering fresh fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious options that support better health outcomes.
• A specialized program that will offer people experiencing homelessness both nutritious meal services and food-service job training opportunities, addressing immediate health needs while creating pathways to employment and stability.

To submit a proposal, go to www.centralhealth.net/finance/purchasing. The deadline to submit is February 18, 2025. Questions about the procurement can be submitted until January 17, with a virtual pre-bid conference scheduled for February 6. For more information about eligibility requirements, contact Balena Bunch at 512-978-8157 or balena.bunch@centralhealth.net.