The Food Farmacy program, now in its second round of funding from the Michigan health Endowment Fund, partners with six Tribal Health Systems across Michigan to implement culturally responsive produce prescription programs in their communities to increase food access and improve healthy eating behaviors.  Through the “produce prescription” model, healthcare providers identify patients experiencing food insecurity and managing diet-related chronic diseases (obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, etc.) and refer them to the program.  Participants receive tokens or vouchers to access fresh fruits and vegetables and traditional Indigenous foods from local farmers, markets, grocers, and vendors.  In addition to food access, the program offers nutrition education and opportunities to engage in traditional foodways and cooking.  In this second round of funding, we are also measuring health outcomes related to the participants referral to evaluate impact.  By weaving together healthcare, community resources, and cultural knowledge, the Food Farmacy program supports food sovereignty, strengthens local food systems, and improves health outcomes for Native communities across Michigan.

Participating tribes:

• Bay Mills Indian Community
• Hannahville Indian Community
• Keweenaw Bay Indian Community
• Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians
• Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi
• Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe

Miigwech to the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians, the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians, and the Hannahville Indian Community, whose leadership and participation in the first round of funding helped shape the program and led to the creation of Food Farmacy:  A Guide for Offering Produce Prescription Programs in Native Communities.