Feeding Texas and Texas Association of Community Health Plans
highlight new pilot project providing medically tailored meals
as important step forward for Texans’ health
Austin, TX – May 2026 – Feeding Texas and the Texas Association of Community Health Plans (TACHP) today celebrated the start of Healthy Texan Week, May 4-11, 2026, a week dedicated to highlighting the critical role nutrition plays in improving health outcomes for Texans.
Healthy Texan Week is an annual statewide awareness campaign designated by the Texas Legislature to promote health, wellness and disease prevention across all communities in Texas. The week brings together healthcare providers, community organizations, schools, businesses and local governments to host health screenings, fitness activities, nutrition education programs and wellness events. During Healthy Texan Week 2026, communities throughout the state will offer free health screenings, vaccination clinics, farmers market tours, fitness challenges and mental health awareness activities.
“Healthy Texan Week reminds us that good health starts with good nutrition, and the Feeding Texas network of food banks is committed to making that a reality for all Texans,” Celia Cole, chief executive officer at Feeding Texas, said. “The Medically Tailored Meals (MTMs) pilot project that the legislature approved last year is an exciting step toward ensuring Texans with chronic conditions get the nutrition they need to achieve better health while lowering healthcare costs.”
The new pilot program, authorized under House Bill 26 passed during the 89th Texas Legislature, will provide medically tailored meals to eligible Medicaid managed care members with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and kidney disease. The meals are specifically designed by registered dietitians to meet the unique nutritional needs of individuals managing these conditions, addressing both medical treatment and food insecurity simultaneously.
Under HB 26, Texas Medicaid managed care organizations will begin delivering medically tailored meals to qualifying members starting in May 2026. Healthy Texan Week not only contributes to the outcomes of the pilot program but may also be a new opportunity for Texans to receive healthcare guidance and support if they were previously unaware of their local resources.
“Healthy Texan Week is the perfect opportunity to focus on the need for innovative approaches to nutrition and health care in Texas,” Janet Walker, president and chief executive officer of the Texas Association of Community Health Plans, said. “One of the most exciting new ideas is the Medically Tailored Meals pilot. This pilot project will help empower and motivate pregnant women by giving them access to healthier nutrition and give them the knowledge and skills to make their families healthier.”
For more information about Healthy Texan Week and to find a local event, visit goodfoodgoodmove.org. To learn more about SNAP food benefits and SNAP-Ed resources, go to www.hhs.texas.gov/services/food.
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About Feeding Texas
Feeding Texas is a statewide network of food banks leading a unified effort to end hunger in Texas. Its goal is to ensure access to adequate, nutritious food for all Texans, improve the health and financial stability of the communities they serve, and engage all stakeholders in advocating for hunger solutions. Learn more at FeedingTexas.org.
Submitted by Jasmine Lozoya, Account Associate, ECPR Texas
