North Carolina ranks 10th in the nation when it comes to food insecurity—which means many families don’t have enough food on the table each day.

At Blue Cross NC, we know that access to nutritious food and health go hand-in-hand. Investing in programs that increase access to fresh, healthy food for children, families and seniors is important year round, but the need can become more exposed during the holiday season.

“One in every ten North Carolinians are facing food insecurity,” said Cheryl Parquet, director, Community Engagement and Marketing Activation at Blue Cross NC. “That’s why Blue Cross NC is committed to combating food insecurity to help improve the health and well-being of our local communities this holiday season."

Healthy Blue Events

Blue Cross NC’s Medicaid managed care plan, Healthy Blue, helped more than 800 families facing food insecurity through six Thanksgiving events across the state. Healthy Blue partnered with entertainer Steve Harvey and radio stations in Mecklenburg, Guilford and Onslow counties to distribute 500 gift cards for turkeys along with a tote bag with cold weather gear like hats and gloves. Food boxes including nonperishable side dishes, fresh fruit and holiday recipes were also distributed in partnership with Waynesville Mountain Church in Haywood County. 

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Carolina Hurricanes Turkey Drive

For the third year, Blue Cross NC has teamed up with the Canes to provide Thanksgiving turkey through the Assist for Hunger program. More than 1,500 turkey breasts will be delivered to North Carolina families across the state. Through the Assist for Hunger program, Blue Cross NC will make a donation to help combat food insecurity for every Canes assist this season.

Lumbee Tribe Thanksgiving Meals

To support tribal elders, Blue Cross NC donated 300 meals consisting of turkey, stuffing, yams, corn mix and cake ahead of Thanksgiving. Blue Cross NC team members also helped package and deliver the meals.