Food Services
Center of Excellence for Rural Nutrition
The Center of Excellence for Rural Nutrition is a GRRO initiative dedicated to transforming health and economic outcomes in rural communities through strategic nutrition-focused programming. Serving as a hub for research, innovation, and partnership, the Center advances food systems that are equitable, sustainable, and deeply rooted in community needs. By addressing food insecurity and supporting access to fresh, healthy foods, the Center works in collaboration with healthcare providers, schools, and local food producers to tackle chronic disease, support vulnerable populations, and strengthen rural resilience. Through evidence-based practices and community empowerment, the Center is setting a new standard for how nutrition can drive long-term rural revitalization.
Our Goals
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Advance Rural Health Through Nutrition
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Strengthen Local Food Systems
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Promote Equity in Food Access
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Lead Innovation and Research
Healing Hearts @ Home
This program bridges the gap between medical care and the social challenges that patients face in rural settings. By embedding a Healthcare Navigator within the hospital’s interdisciplinary team (IDT), we ensure that patients receive essential social support, including assistance with transportation, food security, and post-acute care guidance.
Food Rx
The Healthy Opportunities Pilots (HOP) is the nation’s first comprehensive program to test and evaluate the impact of providing select evidence-based, non-medical interventions related to housing, food, transportation and interpersonal safety and toxic stress to high-needs Medicaid enrollees.
Kerr-Tar Senior Box Program
The Kerr-Tar Senior Box Program is a vital GRRO initiative designed to combat food insecurity among older adults in rural communities. Through monthly distributions of nutritious, shelf-stable food boxes, the program ensures that seniors—many of whom face mobility, health, and economic challenges—have consistent access to the essentials they need to support their health and well-being.