Introduction and Objective: Food insecurity contributes to obesity, diabetes, and poor glycemic control, disproportionately affecting low-income and minority populations. In individuals with diabetes, it is associated with higher A1c, emergency visits, and hospitalizations. Pediatric type 2 diabetes (T2D) prevalence has nearly doubled over 15 years. This project aimed to address food insecurity and support diabetes care through a food pharmacy. Methods: A 2021 pilot survey found 66% of children with T2D screened positive for food insecurity, prompting launch of a clinic-based food pharmacy in an urban pediatric diabetes clinic in Oct 2021, with the city’s largest food bank. Dietitians screen families using a questionnaire (Figure 1) including Hunger Vital Signs. Eligible families receive ~45 lbs of culturally relevant, diabetes-friendly groceries. Data are tracked on screening results, eligibility, and acceptance. Results: From Oct 2021-Nov 2025, 2,815 unique patients received 7,021 food packages (~315,945 lbs). Of completed surveys, 37.9% screened positive via validated questions; 78.9% qualified for food; and 26.3% returned for additional support. Between Jan 2023-Nov 2025, our clinic cared for 996 children with prediabetes or T2D. Most (63.4%) lived in Maryland. Among DC residents (257), 55% were from Wards 7 or 8, which account for 80% of the city’s food deserts. Conclusion: This model offers tailored nutrition support to high-risk families, though staffing and funding gaps limit expansion. Disclosure C. Sambangi: None. E.E. Wilkerson: None. S. Camp: None. J. Roberts: None. A.M. Richardson: None. S. Majidi: Advisory Panel; Current; Sanofi.
Sambangi et al. (Fri,) studied this question.
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