Dear Supervisor Vargas,

I know you agree that low-income San Diegans deserve equal access to the freshest, most healthful fruits and vegetables available in our region.  I have recently learned that a new waiver under MediCal could allow for reimbursement of healthful foods when they are recommended by a healthcare professional.  This is an incredible opportunity for San Diego County to design a program to achieve multiple social and environmental justice outcomes.  Please take immediate action to ensure implementation of CalAIM in San Diego County prioritizes purchasing from local, BIPOC and climate smart farmers.

By prioritizing purchasing from local, BIPOC and climate smart producers, CalAIM will be aligned with San Diego County’s Good Food Purchasing Program, Climate Action Plan, Regional Decarbonization Strategy and green jobs objectives.  Additionally, the County will be facilitating investment in a more robust local food supply chain so that we are prepared for equitable distribution of healthful foods during future global emergencies such as the Covid-19 pandemic.

A thriving and just local food system is important to me and to San Diego.  We are counting on you to think beyond the status quo and use your position to cultivate meaningful and systemic change.

Sincerely,