Hits & Misses

As many families struggle with the high costs of just about everything these days, it was great to see the Highmark Wholecare Farm-to-Family produce market making a stop in Monessen on Wednesday. The drive-thru food distribution was in collaboration with the Westmoreland County Food Bank, City of Monessen and Monessen City School District. The event marked the first Farm-to-Family event in Westmoreland County and included Medicaid renewals, Medicaid application assistance and remarks from community leaders. It was part of a 25stop tour that will bring over 120,000 pounds of fresh produce to more than 6,000 families across Pennsylvania. Highmark Wholecare piloted the approach in 2024, distributing 84,000 pounds of food to 3,500 families. Due to overwhelming demand and community impact, the program has scaled up by 40% in 2025. This food relief can make a huge difference for people struggling in the Mon Valley. We hope this program expands to reach even more communities.