Excellus BlueCross BlueShield announced that it will be donating a total of $6,000 to 12 food banks located in the organization’s Utica region service area. Excellus BlueCross BlueShield’s Utica region encompasses Clinton, Delaware, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Madison, Montgomery, Oneida, Otsego and St. Lawrence counties.
“We recognize that the pandemic has created an even greater need for programs that combat food insecurity,” said Eve Van de Wal, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield Utica Regional President. “We are pleased to provide funding to these organizations who work tirelessly to improve the lives of individuals in the communities we serve.”
Each of the following organizations will receive a donation of $500:
• Community Action Planning Council Food Pantry – Watertown
• Joint Council of Economic Opportunity Clinton County – Plattsburgh
• Joint Council of Economic Opportunity Franklin County – Malone
• Lewis County Opportunities – Lowville
• Cooperstown Food Pantry – Cooperstown
• Lowville Food Pantry – Lowville
• Caz Cares – Cazenovia
• Johnson Park Center – Utica
• Utica Rescue Mission – Utica
• Little Falls Community Outreach Center – Little Falls
• Karing Kitchen – Oneida
• Hope House – Utica
“Social determinants of health, such as food insecurity, negatively affect quality of life and health outcomes,” explained Van de Wal. “Excellus BlueCross BlueShield is proud to partner with community-based organization who address these important issues in order to help reduce health disparities within the communities we serve.”