Prescription for Better Health
USDA grant expands food access
The idea of “food as medicine” is gaining momentum as we recognize the powerful connection between what we eat and how we feel. Yet our Community Health Assessments show access to healthy food remains a persistent need across our region.
To tackle this challenge head-on, Carilion partnered with Local Environmental Agriculture Project (LEAP), Radford University, Virginia Fresh Match and Feeding Southwest Virginia (FSWVA) and in 2024, received a $479,918 grant from the United States Department of Agriculture.
The 3-year grant is transforming and expanding what had been several small-scale produce prescription programs in underserved Roanoke communities into Southwest Virginia Produce Prescription Program (SWPRx), which now also serves Franklin County and the New River Valley.
This innovative program brings together clinical and community resources to encourage eligible patients with high blood pressure, prediabetes or type 2 diabetes to eat more fruits and vegetables. Once referred by their doctor, participants attend free nutrition classes and get vouchers for fresh produce redeemable at grocery stores and farmers markets.
SWPRx is among the many food system initiatives Carilion and our partners have championed together to improve chronic disease outcomes and strengthen food security.
Prescription for Better Health
USDA grant expands food access
The idea of “food as medicine” is gaining momentum as we recognize the powerful connection between what we eat and how we feel. Yet our Community Health Assessments show access to healthy food remains a persistent need across our region.
To tackle this challenge head-on, Carilion partnered with Local Environmental Agriculture Project (LEAP), Radford University, Virginia Fresh Match and Feeding Southwest Virginia (FSWVA) and in 2024, received a $479,918 grant from the United States Department of Agriculture.
The 3-year grant is transforming and expanding what had been several small-scale produce prescription programs in underserved Roanoke communities into Southwest Virginia Produce Prescription Program (SWPRx), which now also serves Franklin County and the New River Valley.
This innovative program brings together clinical and community resources to encourage eligible patients with high blood pressure, prediabetes or type 2 diabetes to eat more fruits and vegetables. Once referred by their doctor, participants attend free nutrition classes and get vouchers for fresh produce redeemable at grocery stores and farmers markets.
SWPRx is among the many food system initiatives Carilion and our partners have championed together to improve chronic disease outcomes and strengthen food security.
Melrose Plaza Opens
Investment brings resources to Northwest Roanoke
Melrose Plaza, a new community center in Northwest Roanoke, opened last year and promises to transform the neighborhood by improving access to a range of vital resources.
Developed by Goodwill Industries of the Valleys in partnership with Carilion Clinic, the City of Roanoke and other community supporters, the $30 million project expands access to education, health services, nutritious food, financial tools and cultural resources—all under one roof.
In addition to funding, we provide ongoing support by providing 15 paid internships annually to students at The Excel Center—Virginia’s first adult high school —creating a direct pathway to employment at Carilion with full pay and benefits.
We also support Wellness on Melrose, which brings together community partners to deliver free health and wellness services, including educational workshops and an open art studio. An on-site community health worker is also available to help residents achieve health goals and connect to primary care and other essential services.
By embedding support directly in the neighborhood, we are helping reduce barriers to care and improve long-term health outcomes. Together with our partners, we are proud to help build a healthier, more equitable future for Northwest Roanoke.
Melrose Plaza Opens
Investment brings resources to Northwest Roanoke
Melrose Plaza, a new community center in Northwest Roanoke, opened last year and promises to transform the neighborhood by improving access to a range of vital resources.
Developed by Goodwill Industries of the Valleys in partnership with Carilion Clinic, the City of Roanoke and other community supporters, the $30 million project expands access to education, health services, nutritious food, financial tools and cultural resources—all under one roof.
In addition to funding, we provide ongoing support by providing 15 paid internships annually to students at The Excel Center—Virginia’s first adult high school —creating a direct pathway to employment at Carilion with full pay and benefits.
We also support Wellness on Melrose, which brings together community partners to deliver free health and wellness services, including educational workshops and an open art studio. An on-site community health worker is also available to help residents achieve health goals and connect to primary care and other essential services.
By embedding support directly in the neighborhood, we are helping reduce barriers to care and improve long-term health outcomes. Together with our partners, we are proud to help build a healthier, more equitable future for Northwest Roanoke.
Better Health Beyond Our Walls
Tackling our region’s needs together
From preventing chronic disease and improving access to healthy foods and vital resources, we’re making a difference in the lives of thousands each year. The impact of this work is profound, as these key data points from our latest Community Benefit Report confirm:
- $2.3 million invested in grants, sponsorships and community building
- 168,500 individuals served through health education
- 91% event participants reported improved well-being
Better Health Beyond Our Walls
Tackling our region’s needs together
From preventing chronic disease and improving access to healthy foods and vital resources, we’re making a difference in the lives of thousands each year. The impact of this work is profound, as these key data points from our latest Community Benefit Report confirm:
- $2.3 million invested in grants, sponsorships and community building
- 168,500 individuals served through health education
- 91% event participants reported improved well-being
Community Benefit
Our investment measured in dollars and cents
As a not-for-profit health system, our mission of caring extends beyond our facilities. Each year, we invest millions to improve our region's health and economic vitality for many years to come. We measure that investment—also known as "community benefit"—each year.
Community Benefit
Our investment measured in dollars and cents
As a not-for-profit health system, our mission of caring extends beyond our facilities. Each year, we invest millions to improve our region's health and economic vitality for many years to come. We measure that investment—also known as "community benefit"—each year.