Augusta Locally Grown
Augusta Locally Grown transforms health outcomes through innovative vegetable prescription programs that connect patients with fresh, local produce while supporting regional farmers.
Augusta Locally Grown (ALG) pioneered Georgia's first vegetable prescription program in 2014, creating an innovative model that addresses both food insecurity and chronic health conditions in the Central Savannah River Area. Through their Georgia Food for Health (GF4H) program, ALG provides participants with prescriptions for fresh vegetables redeemable at the Veggie Park Farmers Market, accompanied by comprehensive support including plant-based cooking classes, monthly dietician coaching, and wellness education.
What began as a small women-led farmers market in 2008 has evolved into the region's leading local food economic driver, operating multiple pickup locations and supporting over 60 farmers and producers. The GF4H program exemplifies ALG's commitment to creating sustainable health solutions by building partnerships with community organizations including Harrisburg Family Health Clinic, Augusta Dietetic Association, St. Luke United Methodist Church, and the American Heart Association. In 2024, the program expanded to 28 weeks and introduced food safety and preservation classes, while maintaining emergency fresh produce distribution during hurricane events.
The impact of the program is best captured through participant experiences: "The ability to have access to fresh fruits and veggies weekly, otherwise it's unaffordable. I am grateful for the opportunity. It was truly a blessing to my family." Another participant shared: "Meeting different farmers and learning about their farms. I enjoyed the community of the program leaders. Also, I liked how they allowed participant feedback to accommodate us and keep us a part of the program."
Outcomes
- 95 participants enrolled in 2024 with 83% retention rate
- Over $130,000 contributed to local farmers through vegetable prescriptions over six years
- 30 Peer Champions planned for 2025, organized into 5 support teams
- Expanded Food as Medicine programs including NOURISH Moms (cardiovascular health), Blood Pressure Self Monitoring, HEALCARE (prostate cancer prevention), and THRIVE (HIV/AIDS support)
- 10 cooking classes and 10 wellness classes delivered in 2024, with 8 previous participants returning as volunteers
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