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Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Announces 2026 Health Justice Partnership

In a proactive move towards fighting food insecurity, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, also known as Blue Cross, has revealed a generous allocation of grants aimed at supporting local not-for-profit organizations. This initiative is part of their Health Justice Partnership which focuses on health equity across the state.

Grant Distribution and Purpose

On November 6, 2025, Blue Cross announced that five notable not-for-profit organizations will each receive grants amounting to $100,000 along with $50,000 in pro-bono support over a span of 2026 and 2027. This funding will empower these organizations to tackle pressing issues related to food access, ensuring that vulnerable populations can obtain the nutritious food they require.

With a focus on health equity, the initiative demonstrates Blue Cross's commitment to addressing various disparities affecting overall health, including environmental, racial, and nutritional inequalities. The selected organizations are pivotal stakeholders in their communities, dedicated to making a significant impact.

The Selected Organizations

1. Boston Area Gleaners

This organization works effectively to improve access to fresh food while also combating food waste across Eastern Massachusetts. Their efforts ensure that more individuals can benefit from healthy food options, diminishing both hunger and food waste simultaneously.

2. Damien's Food Pantry

A vital food resource for over 1,200 households, Damien's Food Pantry specializes in distributing food tailored to meet the cultural and nutritional necessities of the local communities across Plymouth, Bristol, and Barnstable counties.

3. Root

Focused on fostering independence among young adults, Root provides crucial food service training and employment opportunities. This initiative helps empower individuals while addressing food insecurity in the process, paving the way for a brighter future.

4. Southeastern Massachusetts Agricultural Partnership (SEMAP)

By providing essential technical support to over 150 farmers, SEMAP plays a vital role in advocating for local agriculture. They work on policies and programs to strengthen local food systems, enhancing access to regional food supplies.

5. Union Capital

Union Capital focuses on building robust community networks while tackling food access issues in Boston and Springfield. Their efforts aim to create sustainable solutions that not only address immediate needs but also foster long-term change.

Statements from Blue Cross Leadership

Jeff Bellows, the Vice President of Corporate Citizenship and Public Affairs for Blue Cross, expressed the organization's deep commitment to supporting families facing food insecurity in Massachusetts. He stated, “No one should go hungry, and we're partnering with local nonprofits to help ensure vulnerable households can still access the nutritious food they need.”

Additional Support Initiatives

In addition to the grant allocations, Blue Cross has taken several other steps to enhance food justice throughout the state. These initiatives include:

• - Creation of $150,000 in Targeted Support grants aimed at key food access not-for-profits.
• - A commitment of $50,000 to Project 351, which engages youth in efforts to combat food insecurity and social isolation.
• - Distribution of solar-generated energy credits valued at $65,000 to local food banks, further supporting those in need across the region.

Conclusion

Through these substantial commitments, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts is not only addressing immediate food insecurity challenges but is also laying a foundation for long-term health equity within the communities they serve. The work being done by these partnered organizations will undoubtedly pave the way for healthier futures for many families across the state.