Provider updates

Beginning July 1, 2026, expanded HRSN nutrition benefits will be available to eligible Oregon Health Plan (OHP) members.

New services include:

• Fruit & Vegetable Benefit
• Pantry Stocking Benefit

These benefits build on existing medically tailored meals and nutrition education and aim to reduce food insecurity and improve health outcomes.

Eligible members may receive grocery boxes (delivered or picked up) or a prepaid card for approved retailers.

Providers play an important role in helping members access HRSN nutrition benefits. This includes helping members apply and setting clear expectations about eligibility and availability.

Providers can support members by:

• Directing them to the online HRSN Nutrition webpage and digital request form
• Providing the fillable PDF application and guiding them to email it to hrsncx@careoregon.org
• Submitting requests through Unite Us
• Helping them call Customer Service at 971-236-2998
  • Press 1 (member) → 6 (social needs)

For more information download this handout or visit colpachealth.org/nutritionsupports 

FAQs

Which OHP members are eligible?

• Fruit & Vegetable Benefit and Pantry Stocking
  • Be an active OHP member,
  • Have a social risk (food insecurity) AND be experiencing a life transition,
  • Have a health condition that meets benefit requirements
• Pantry Stocking specific-benefit criteria
  • Members must meet the criteria above AND one of the following:
    • Be under 5 years of age
    • Ages 6-21 with a health condition
    • Ages 19-26 with a special health care need
    • Pregnant

What foods are included in these benefits?

• Fruit & Vegetable Benefit includes minimally processed fruits and vegetables, such as:
  • Fresh, frozen, dried, puréed or canned produce
  • Herbs
    
• Pantry Stocking Benefit includes minimally processed whole foods, including:
  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Meat, poultry, fish, plant‑based proteins, legumes
  • Dairy
  • Whole grains, breads, cereals
  • Cooking oils, spices, herbs
  • Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages
  • Seeds and plants that produce food for the household to eat

Do these benefits require authorization?

Yes. Both the Fruit & Vegetable Benefit and the Pantry Stocking Benefit require authorization before services can begin. Members cannot receive both benefits at the same time.

How do approved members receive the food?

Members receive benefits in one of two ways:

• Grocery box delivery (weekly or biweekly) or pickup, or
• A restricted-use prepaid card usable at approved grocery retailers

What should providers expect regarding member demand?

CareOregon anticipates a large volume of requests, especially in July and throughout the fall. Not all members who request the benefit will qualify, and setting expectations early will help reduce confusion.