ISU’s Institute of Rural Health receives major grant to help pregnant women eat healthier
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POCATELLO — Pregnant women and their families in eight southeastern Idaho counties will soon have greater access to fresh fruits and vegetables, thanks to a large federal grant awarded to Idaho State University.
ISU’s Institute of Rural Health has received $499,465 to launch the Idaho Maternal Produce Prescription Program (IMP3), an initiative designed to make nutritious foods more affordable and accessible for expectant mothers and their families.
The funding comes from the federal Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), which established the Maternal Produce Prescription Program to improve the health of mothers and babies by addressing food insecurity and increasing access to nutritious foods.
The program will provide eligible participants with prepaid cards or vouchers to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables, including at local farmers’ markets.
Participants in Bannock, Bear Lake, Bingham, Butte, Caribou, Franklin, Oneida and Power counties will also receive nutrition education to help them develop healthier eating habits for themselves and their families.
“We are so excited about this program because it addresses a resource gap and area of need for Southeastern Idaho,” said Aubree FitzGerald, grant project coordinator.
FitzGerald said that although the institute is based in Pocatello, organizers recognize the need for improved access to nutritious foods throughout the region.
Kailey Blood, lead grant project coordinator, said the initiative goes beyond simply providing fresh produce.
“The program aims to increase fruit and vegetable consumption among enrolled women and their families, provide nutrition education, and strengthen the relationships between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local food systems,” Blood said.
ISU will work with local healthcare providers and community organizations to identify eligible women and connect them with the program.
Organizers hope the initiative will not only help families put healthier food on the table but also improve maternal health and birth outcomes.
The grant covers the first year of a proposed four-year project. Additional funding will depend on federal appropriations and the program’s progress.
FitzGerald said applications are expected to open in 2027, with additional information to be released as the program gets closer to launching.
In the meantime, organizers are seeking partnerships with health care providers, community organizations and others interested in improving maternal and family health throughout southeastern Idaho.
Anyone interested in partnering with or contributing to this effort can contact the ISU project team at (208) 282-4436.