Louisiana Healthcare Connections, Centene Foundation Support Food Bank of Central Louisiana with Emergency Food Assistance Funding

Louisiana Healthcare Connections, a Medicaid health plan serving the Louisiana Department of Health, and the Centene Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Centene Corporation, today presented a check for $28,000 to the Food Bank of Central Louisiana to support emergency food assistance for families experiencing food insecurity across Central Louisiana.

This investment is part of a larger $125,000 commitment from Louisiana Healthcare Connections and the Centene Foundation to strengthen food access statewide. Funding supports four regional food banks, enabling expanded emergency food support, increased food acquisition and distribution, pantry expansion in underserved areas, and mobile food distribution to reach rural communities.

“Access to nutritious food is a critical driver of health, especially in rural regions where families often face limited resources,” said Jamie Schlottman, plan president of Louisiana Healthcare Connections. “The Food Bank of Central Louisiana is a trusted partner serving communities with some of the greatest needs, and we are proud to support their efforts to combat hunger and improve health outcomes.”

The Centene Foundation’s contribution reflects a shared commitment to whole-person health by addressing basic needs that influence long-term well-being, including food security for families, seniors, and children.

“This funding allows us to strengthen our emergency response and better serve families across Central Louisiana who are struggling to put food on the table,” said Jayne Wright-Velez, Executive Director of the Food Bank of Central Louisiana. “Support from Louisiana Healthcare Connections and the Centene Foundation helps ensure we can continue meeting rising needs in our communities.”

For more information about Louisiana Healthcare Connections, visit www.louisianahealthconnect.com.