Health Net and Centene Foundation's $1.1M Initiative to Tackle Food Insecurity in California
On November 20, 2025, Health Net, one of the leading Medi-Cal managed care health plans in California, in collaboration with the Centene Foundation, announced a significant investment of $1.1 million dedicated to combating food insecurity in the state. The staggering statistic that one in five Californians is affected by food scarcity is a pressing concern, and this initiative aims to build resilience within vulnerable communities.
The funds will specifically be directed to the California Association of Food Banks (CAFB), which will oversee the distribution of resources to enhance food access across 12 targeted counties—Amador, Calaveras, Fresno, Imperial, Inyo, Kings, Madera, Mono, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tulare, and Tuolumne. These areas are home to many rural communities that struggle with obtaining nutritious food, which underscores the urgency for localized support in resolving these disparities.
The grant will enable the development of essential infrastructure, like refrigerated trucks and cold storage facilities, necessary for improving food delivery systems. This focus on ensuring that healthy and nutrient-rich food reaches those most in need is a core part of the plan. "Food insecurity remains an acute issue, exacerbated by the disruption of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), particularly affecting vulnerable populations," stated Dorothy Seleski, the plan product president of Health Net. She emphasized the commitment to ensuring that every individual in California has consistent access to wholesome food, especially in challenging times like these.
Assemblywoman Esmeralda Soria, representing California's 27th Assembly District, remarked on the community impact of food scarcity, asserting that when families in rural areas struggle to afford food, the repercussions ripple throughout the entire locality. This initiative not only fortifies the local food banks but also fosters a community spirit where neighbors can support one another through difficult periods. "By collaborating, we are building a foundation for healthier communities moving forward," she added.
Stacia Levenfeld, the chief executive director of the California Association of Food Banks, also expressed her gratitude, stating, "Food banks are facing record demands for assistance in their communities, and this partnership comes at a critical juncture. The funding will genuinely empower rural food banks to provide more families with the essential nutrition needed to thrive." The statistics presented paint a sobering picture; while food banks are delivering historic quantities of food, the demand shows no signs of waning.
Between 2020 and 2025, Health Net has pledged over $247 million to community-based organizations, reflecting its dedication to local commitments and social welfare. For more information about Health Net's community engagements, individuals can visit www.bridgingthedivideca.com.
About Health Net
Founded over 45 years ago in California, Health Net, LLC, is committed to ensuring that every individual has the healthcare support they deserve, regardless of their circumstances. They offer health plans for various demographics, from individuals to families and businesses, as well as those qualifying for Medi-Cal or Medicare. Serving over three million members, the organization takes pride in its expansive network of healthcare providers. Furthermore, Health Net’s subsidiaries contribute to its comprehensive health services.
About Centene Foundation
As the philanthropic segment of Centene Corporation, the Centene Foundation invests in economically disadvantaged communities. The foundation focuses on removing health access barriers for underserved populations and promotes equity through healthcare initiatives, social services, and education.
About California Association of Food Banks
Established in 1997, the California Association of Food Banks is a pivotal player in California's battle against hunger. With its collective mission, it unites over 42 food banks with thousands of community-based organizations to champion food access as a fundamental human right. To learn more, visit cafoodbanks.org.
The funds will specifically be directed to the California Association of Food Banks (CAFB), which will oversee the distribution of resources to enhance food access across 12 targeted counties—Amador, Calaveras, Fresno, Imperial, Inyo, Kings, Madera, Mono, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tulare, and Tuolumne. These areas are home to many rural communities that struggle with obtaining nutritious food, which underscores the urgency for localized support in resolving these disparities.
The grant will enable the development of essential infrastructure, like refrigerated trucks and cold storage facilities, necessary for improving food delivery systems. This focus on ensuring that healthy and nutrient-rich food reaches those most in need is a core part of the plan. "Food insecurity remains an acute issue, exacerbated by the disruption of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), particularly affecting vulnerable populations," stated Dorothy Seleski, the plan product president of Health Net. She emphasized the commitment to ensuring that every individual in California has consistent access to wholesome food, especially in challenging times like these.
Assemblywoman Esmeralda Soria, representing California's 27th Assembly District, remarked on the community impact of food scarcity, asserting that when families in rural areas struggle to afford food, the repercussions ripple throughout the entire locality. This initiative not only fortifies the local food banks but also fosters a community spirit where neighbors can support one another through difficult periods. "By collaborating, we are building a foundation for healthier communities moving forward," she added.
Stacia Levenfeld, the chief executive director of the California Association of Food Banks, also expressed her gratitude, stating, "Food banks are facing record demands for assistance in their communities, and this partnership comes at a critical juncture. The funding will genuinely empower rural food banks to provide more families with the essential nutrition needed to thrive." The statistics presented paint a sobering picture; while food banks are delivering historic quantities of food, the demand shows no signs of waning.
Between 2020 and 2025, Health Net has pledged over $247 million to community-based organizations, reflecting its dedication to local commitments and social welfare. For more information about Health Net's community engagements, individuals can visit www.bridgingthedivideca.com.
About Health Net
Founded over 45 years ago in California, Health Net, LLC, is committed to ensuring that every individual has the healthcare support they deserve, regardless of their circumstances. They offer health plans for various demographics, from individuals to families and businesses, as well as those qualifying for Medi-Cal or Medicare. Serving over three million members, the organization takes pride in its expansive network of healthcare providers. Furthermore, Health Net’s subsidiaries contribute to its comprehensive health services.
About Centene Foundation
As the philanthropic segment of Centene Corporation, the Centene Foundation invests in economically disadvantaged communities. The foundation focuses on removing health access barriers for underserved populations and promotes equity through healthcare initiatives, social services, and education.
About California Association of Food Banks
Established in 1997, the California Association of Food Banks is a pivotal player in California's battle against hunger. With its collective mission, it unites over 42 food banks with thousands of community-based organizations to champion food access as a fundamental human right. To learn more, visit cafoodbanks.org.
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