Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield commits $1.8M to support Gleaners Food Bank

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana announced on Wednesday, May 13 a renewed partnership focused on addressing food insecurity and improving health outcomes across central and southeastern Indiana.

Anthem, through its Government Business organization, is committing $1.8 million over three years to support Gleaners’ hunger-relief efforts across its 21-county service area.

The announcement was made during a check presentation at Gleaners’ Indianapolis facility, where leaders from both organizations highlighted the critical connection between access to nutritious food and overall health.

Steffens

“At Anthem, we believe health begins long before someone walks into a doctor’s office,” said Neil Steffens, President of Government Business, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Indiana. “Access to nutritious food is foundational to whole health, and this investment reflects our commitment to addressing the root causes of poor health outcomes. ‘Food as medicine’ is a strategy for us to help people live healthier lives, to strengthen our communities, and to reduce long-term healthcare costs.”

Food insecurity remains a significant challenge for many Hoosiers and is closely linked to chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Through this partnership, Anthem and Gleaners will not only expand access to nutritious food but also connect individuals and families to critical benefits and services that support their broader health needs.

Glass

“This multi-year commitment from Anthem allows Gleaners to deepen our impact and better serve neighbors facing hunger,” said Fred Glass, President and CEO of Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana. “We know that hunger and health are deeply connected. By working together, we can provide stability and improved well-being for the individuals and communities we serve.”

Gleaners will use the funding to support its network of hunger-relief agencies, mobile and school-based pantry programs, and outreach efforts that connect individuals to resources such as SNAP, Medicaid, and utility assistance. Anthem employees also support the partnership through volunteer efforts, including participation in food distribution events.

“The Anthem Government Business organization I lead in Indiana serves many individuals who face complex challenges beyond healthcare alone,” Steffens said. “Addressing social drivers of health, like access to nutritious food, is essential to meeting their needs. With today’s donation, we believe we can help prevent more serious health issues and create healthier futures for the people we are privileged to serve.”

Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana serves 21 counties and distributes food through a network of more than 300 community partners. Since its founding in 1980, the organization has distributed more than one billion pounds of food to Hoosiers in need.