TampaWell activated by Tampa General Hospital Receives $25,000 Grant to Expand Food as Medicine Program to Pediatric Patients

The grant from Community Foundation Tampa Bay supports growth of the innovative food pharmacy program for children facing food insecurity. 

Tampa, FL (June 23, 2026) – Tampa General Hospital announced today that TampaWell has been awarded a $25,000 grant from the Community Foundation Tampa Bay to expand its Food as Medicine program to serve pediatric patients through the TampaWell Food Pharmacy*.

The funding will support the expansion of Tampa General’s existing Food Pharmacy* at TGH Healthpark, an outpatient facility in East Tampa that serves as a hub for integrated, community-based care, offering primary and specialty services, preventive care and wellness programs. The new pediatric food pharmacy* program will supply nutritious food directly to children identified as food insecure and living with nutrition-related health conditions. The program provides medically tailored groceries, nutrition education, and family-centered support as part of a child’s treatment plan, with the goal of improving health outcomes and reducing preventable hospital visits.

“Expanding the Food as Medicine program to pediatric patients allows us to intervene earlier and support children and families at a critical stage in their health journey,” said Rachel Hoyer, Assistant Director of Community Wellness at Tampa General Hospital. “This grant enables us to provide not only nutritious food, but also education and resources that empower families to better manage chronic conditions and build healthier futures.”

Food insecurity is increasingly recognized as a significant driver of pediatric health outcomes, with links to chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and developmental challenges. By embedding food access within clinical care, Tampa General is addressing these challenges through a holistic, evidence-based approach that removes barriers and improves long-term health.

Through the expanded program, eligible pediatric patients at TGH Healthpark and their families will receive access to fresh produce, pantry staples, and customized grocery boxes tailored to their medical needs, along with nutrition counseling. Delivery partnerships will help ensure families can access food reliably, further reducing barriers to care.

"We are proud to support Tampa General Hospital’s innovative Food as Medicine program through this grant,” said Brandi Sanchez, Senior Director, Community Investment at Community Foundation Tampa Bay. “This initiative is a powerful example of how community partnerships can address root causes of health challenges and improve the well-being of children and families across our region.”

This expansion builds on Tampa General’s commitment to advancing health equity and whole-person care, while also piloting scalable solutions that can be expanded to reach more underserved populations over time.

 *TampaWell Food Pharmacy/Food Rx is not a pharmacy, medical professional or healthcare provider.