HOW IT WORKS

Simple Steps. Real Results

We deliver nutritious ingredients right to your doorstep, paired with recipes to make cooking easy. Join our online, interactive cooking and nutrition classes for more guidance and to connect with others also managing chronic, diet-sensitive conditions.

  • You Enroll.

    We will confirm your eligibility and place a referral with your health insurance provider. We’re here to help work with your insurance.

  • Groceries Arrive at Your Door.

    Every other week, ingredients, including fresh produce and shelf-stable pantry items, will be delivered to your door, at no cost to you!

  • Cook Together Online.

    Join a live, interactive cooking class on Zoom every week. Our instructors will share nutrition information and demonstrate how to prepare ingredients and recipes. Leave with lifelong skills to help you manage your condition and feel confident in the kitchen.

WHAT YOU GET

Everything you need - at no cost to you

Food as Medicine (FAM) removes barriers between you and healthy eating.

Recipes Built For You

Every grocery box you receive will include different fruits, vegetables, and pantry staples. Printed recipes are included to show you how to turn the ingredients into delicious and easy meals. Our online Zoom classes will include a demonstration of how to prepare recipes and an opportunity to ask cooking questions or modify the recipes to your and your family's preferences.

Weekly Live Cooking and Nutrition Classes

Interactive online classes where you’ll cook along with an instructor. We will also discuss reading nutrition labels and how to eat a balanced diet. Real time tips and encouragement.

A Supportive Community

Cook alongside peers who get what you’re going through. Learn from others with real-life experience.

Who Can Join?

  • We cover members who have Medi-Cal coverage through Contra Costa Health Plan, Central California Alliance for Health, and Anthem San Francisco.
  • You have been diagnosed with a chronic condition such as obesity, hypertension, diabetes, gestational diabetes, cancer, moderate or severe mental health conditions. Please note that other conditions may also be eligible.
  • You want support making healthier food choices.
  • You’d benefit from cooking skills and guidance.
  • Kids are eligible, too! 
  • If you’re not sure if you’re eligible, we’re happy to help you check.

Not sure if you qualify? That's okay - reach out and we'll help you figure it out.

Get Started

Do you work with Medi-cal members?

If your patients or clients are Contra Costa Health Plan , Anthem SF, or Central California Alliance for Health Medi-Cal members, you can refer them to our services using our interest forms or directly through your provider portal - simply place a CalAIM community supports referral for medically tailored meals/ medically supportive foods and select “18 Reasons” as the vendor and “groceries” or “grocery boxes” as the desired service.  

We work with you to improve the health and nutrition of your MediCal patients and clients. We offer collaborative partnerships, including co-facilitated telehealth group appointments. We’re also happy to share printed flyers or attend an in-service or staff meeting to share more about our services.

Reach out to us at foodasmedicine@18reasons.org or (415) 568-2713. Faxes can be sent to (858) 281-5727.

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