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Rural Health Information Hub
Rural Health Information Hub

Rural Health
News by Topic: Food security and nutrition

Aug 20, 2026 - Highlights a study in progress investigating the impact of a food as medicine program on health outcomes in the rural Mississippi Delta. Also discusses the way the study is positively impacting area farmers through investments in the local food production economy. Notes that preliminary study outcomes are positive, but full results will not be ready until the study concludes in 2027.
Source: Farm Press
Aug 17, 2026 - Notice from the Food and Nutrition Administration (FNA) extending the comment period for the June 24, 2026, proposed rule titled "Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program: Changes in Federal-State Administrative Cost Sharing." Comments are now due September 8, 2026.
Source: Federal Register
Aug 17, 2026 - Highlights a Future Farmers of America project in Missouri to address food insecurity in rural and other communities.
Source: WGEM
Aug 6, 2026 - Notice from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) seeking comments on the renewal and revision of information collections related to the USDA Food Distribution Programs. Comments are due by September 8, 2026.
Source: Federal Register
Aug 3, 2026 - Offers data showing use of Health Resource and Services Administration (HRSA)-funded health centers in 2025, noting that health centers saw the highest number of patients in the program's history. Rural areas saw the most growth. Also discusses funding for supporting food-based interventions, healthcare quality, and the role of health centers as training sites for the future health workforce.
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Jul 27, 2026 - Announces the annual adjustments to the federal and state funding levels and reimbursement rates for the Child and Adult Care Food Program. Updated rates are effective from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027.
Source: Federal Register
Jul 22, 2026 - Discusses new available funding for strengthening the Utah state food supply to support local rural community economies and the health of their residents. The funds are part of the state's Rural Health Transformation Program strategy.
Source: KSL
Jul 16, 2026 - Announces the annual adjustments to the federal and state funding levels and reimbursement rates for the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs and the reimbursement rates for institutions participating in the Special Milk Program for Children. Updated rates are effective from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027.
Source: Federal Register
Jul 8, 2026 - Describes a Mississippi initiative to help food pantry operators offer healthy food options and obtain funding for their services. Highlights a rural food pantry that received the training.
Source: The Dispatch
Jun 26, 2026 - Discusses food insecurity for children in a rural Michigan community and a partnership between a school and nonprofit to educate on and connect children with nutritious food. Describes rural specific challenges in accessing food including community resources, transportation, and pride.
Source: Rapid Growth