SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — On Thursday, the Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum hosted a networking session for faith leaders and community leaders.
At the event, representatives from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) walked through the programs they offer and resources the nonprofits could use. A main element of this was the grants BCBSIL provides to help with Springfield nutrition efforts.
"Healthy eating starts with your fruits and vegetables, but fruits and vegetables are one of your most expensive things to buy at the grocery store," said Heather Briggs, Community Relations Coordinator for BCBSIL. "We want to help in those food deserts and provide the most expensive items."
One of the organizations that attended the event and benefits from the BCBSIL grant is Table of Life Ministries. The church offers hot meals after services and provides a bag service for people over the weekend.
"We can give children something they can take home, it's not a snack, just eat here, you take this back home, and you eat throughout the week, and bring it back and we'll fill it for you," said Pastor Michelle Washington, Youth Director at Table of Life Ministries.
Ward 5 Alderwoman Lakeisha Purchase said BCBSIL has provided produce boxes and pop up farmers markets in senior communities in her ward. She said these steps help those who can't easily access healthcare services.
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