WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Roger Marshall introduced the bipartisan Nutrition Services Improvement Plan Act to help congregate and home-delivered nutrition programs, like Meals on Wheels, provide healthier meals with produce from local farms.
“Millions of Americans rely on meals provided by the Older Americans Act. They deserve fresh, healthy meals. They deserve to know where their food is coming from,” said Hickenlooper. “This bill supports local farmers and at the same time helps seniors live healthier, longer lives.”
“I am proud to partner with my colleague and put this project into hyperdrive which aims to study how federal programs can engage with local farmers through nutrition services,” Marshall said. “Our goal is to explore the potential for a healthier, home-grown future for our communities. I have always believed that food is medicine, and this partnership provides an excellent opportunity to demonstrate this by examining the outcomes of nutritious, medically tailored meals and prescription food programs for our seniors and beyond.”
Specifically, the senators’ bill would require the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to assess the feasibility of the Nutrition Services Incentive Program (NSIP), like “Meals on Wheels”, to establish partnerships with local farms to supply produce for nutritious meals. The study would also examine the potential health benefits of providing fresh produce and healthy meals to older adults who rely on these programs.
The NSIP is authorized by the Older Americans Act, whichsupports social and nutrition service programs for more than 11 million seniors across the country and is up for reauthorization at the end of fiscal year 2024. In fiscal year 2023, Colorado received more than $1.42 million in support through the program.
Full text of the legislation available HERE.
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