On Friday, April 12, The Western Maryland Food Council awarded UPMC Western Maryland the first annual Western Maryland Food System Champion Award.

The award recognizes UPMC Western Maryland for its leadership role and many contributions that have improved the food system in the Western Maryland region. Beneficial food system initiatives driven by UPMC Western Maryland include: establishing and maintaining multiple community gardens, establishing and operating a farmer’s market at the hospital and providing UPMC Western Maryland clients with $5 vouchers, Food Farmacy and Veggie Van programs, production and sharing of Wellness Wednesday videos on Facebook, providing free grocery store tours to the public, hosting and delivering community Thanksgiving meals, Food Council membership and leadership roles, and other high quality population health, food, nutrition and wellness efforts overall.

“[UPMC Western Maryland] staff and their efforts serve as inspiration for creative and beneficial food system programs that both meet urgent needs in the community and can be replicated successfully elsewhere,” said Willie Lantz, WMFC Chair.

“This award inspires us to continue our work addressing food insecurity,” said Jo Wilson, UPMC Western Maryland Vice President, Population Health. “It is confirmation that our efforts are appreciated by our partners, the community and the people who our programs benefit.”