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Epicured Partners with Staten Island PPS for Nutrition Services

In a remarkable step towards improving health outcomes for vulnerable communities, Epicured Inc., a pioneer in medically tailored nutrition solutions, has established a strategic alliance with the Staten Island Performing Provider System (Staten Island PPS). This collaboration aims to cater to the rising demand for nutrition services under New York State's substantial $7.5 billion Medicaid Waiver initiative.

By uniting their efforts, Epicured and Staten Island PPS are working towards a common goal: delivering clinically appropriate and delicious meals, pantry supplies, and vital nutrition counseling to Medicaid beneficiaries throughout the state. This alliance is designed to enhance health outcomes, tackle health disparities, and advance a holistic approach to care for New York's underserved populations.

Richard Bennett, the CEO and Co-founder of Epicured, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the critical role Staten Island PPS plays in ensuring access to essential nutrition services. “Their dedication to removing barriers to vital services, combined with our expertise in delivering tailored nutrition solutions, is already leading to transformative changes in the lives of many individuals,” he stated.

Since the launch of the Medicaid Waiver in January 2025, Epicured has rapidly expanded its operational capacity, enhancing its logistics and care delivery infrastructure to efficiently serve Medicaid recipients statewide. Their personalized nutrition services encompass home-delivered medically tailored meals (MTMs), curated pantry and grocery boxes, and individual nutrition counseling, all tailored to meet the clinical needs and cultural preferences of the patients.

Epicured's collaboration with Staten Island PPS ensures that these critical services reach those who need them most. Joe Conte, Executive Director of Staten Island PPS, acknowledged Epicured's commitment to high-quality, scalable, and culturally relevant nutrition solutions, emphasizing their role as a key partner in promoting dignity and substantial change for thousands of Medicaid members.

In just six months, the initiative has positively impacted many Medicaid recipients by facilitating healthier dietary habits through the distribution of specially designed meals and pantry packages. Epicured not only focuses on daily nutritional requirements but also offers tailored therapeutic programs to help manage chronic health conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and the unique nutritional needs of pregnant and postpartum women. This initiative caters to a diverse demographic, from infants to seniors, ensuring that personalized nutrition is accessible at every stage of life and health.

Participants in the program have often voiced their appreciation for the positive changes brought about by Epicured's services. As one member from Staten Island's Stapleton neighborhood remarked, “I recommend Epicured to anyone seeking assistance in adjusting to a healthier dietary lifestyle. The portions are generous, and the meals are varied and delightful.”

Another resident from South Beach noted the program's significance for those with mobility challenges, stating, “This initiative means a lot to me, as I struggle with standing and walking for extended periods. I tell everyone about it because it's been so beneficial.”

Looking ahead, Epicured is committed to leveraging its food-as-medicine expertise to uphold the dignity of its members, lessen health disparities, improve healthcare outcomes, and facilitate greater access to sufficient and appropriate nutrition, which is foundational to healthcare.

Medicaid members interested in these services may be eligible under the 1115 waiver. For more details, individuals can visit Staten Island PPS Member Services to complete a self-screening form or contact (917) 830-1140 for assistance.

About Epicured Inc.

Epicured is dedicated to combating chronic diseases through innovative nutrition solutions, embodying a unique blend of clinical research insights and culinary excellence to promote healthier lifestyles. As a frontrunner in the food-as-medicine sector, Epicured aims to redefine the role of nutrition within the American healthcare system while collaborating with individuals, health plans, and organizations to design effective solutions for challenging health problems. To learn more, visit Epicured's website or connect on LinkedIn.

About Staten Island Performing Provider System (SI PPS)

Founded in 2014, Staten Island PPS is a nonprofit public health entity operating under New York's Medicaid 1115 waiver. Tasked with enhancing healthcare access and outcomes, SI PPS has successfully met state targets for reducing avoidable hospital stays and has been pivotal in partnerships that expand and improve the delivery of social care services focusing on health equity.