October is a time to celebrate the history, traditions and contributions of Italian Americans—and in Rockland County, that heritage runs deep.

Every October, communities across the United States recognize Italian-American Heritage and Culture Month, honoring generations of Italian immigrants and their descendants who have helped shape American life.

In Rockland County, Italian-American heritage can be found throughout the community—in family-owned businesses and restaurants, churches, civic organizations and generations of families who have made the county their home.

The story is part of a much larger American immigration experience. Beginning in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, millions of Italians came to the United States seeking opportunity and a better future. Over generations, Italian-American families established roots, built businesses, entered the professions and became active members of their communities.

Their influence extends far beyond food and family traditions. Italian Americans have made significant contributions to the arts, entertainment, science, business, education, public service and countless other areas of American life.

A Heritage Passed Down

For many Rockland families, heritage is preserved through traditions shared from one generation to the next—from recipes and family gatherings to photographs, stories and the memories of relatives who came to America.

Italian-American Heritage and Culture Month was first designated by Congress in 1989, establishing October as a time to recognize Italian-American history and contributions. The observance also coincides with Columbus Day, traditionally celebrated on October 12 and now observed federally on the second Monday of October.

While Christopher Columbus remains a significant historical figure for many Italian Americans, his legacy and the consequences of European exploration are also subjects of ongoing historical discussion. The heritage month provides a broader opportunity to recognize the experiences and accomplishments of Italian Americans themselves.

For Rockland County, October is a chance to celebrate a heritage that remains very much alive—not only in the traditions of previous generations, but in the families, businesses and communities carrying those traditions forward today.

It is a celebration of where those families came from, what they built, and the legacy they continue to pass on.

Medicaid members may qualify to have fresh and shelf-stable food delivered directly to their homes at no cost.

Some Rockland County residents enrolled in Medicaid may be eligible to receive fresh, nutritious or shelf-stable food delivered directly to their homes at no cost through their health insurance plan.

The program, offered through Project FoodBox, is part of a growing effort to address food insecurity and nutrition-related health conditions by connecting eligible Medicaid members with nutritious food and medically informed nutrition support.

Food Designed With Your Health in Mind

Project FoodBox’s food-as-medicine programs are designed to provide individuals and families with nutritious foods that can support their overall wellness.

Food selections are planned with the guidance of registered dietitians, with an emphasis on quality fruits and vegetables and other nutritious foods.

Eligible participants may receive:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Shelf-stable foods
• Nutrition-focused food selections planned with registered dietitians
• Food sourced from local farms and kitchens
• Delivery directly to your home at no cost, if covered by your Medicaid plan

Who May Qualify?

Eligibility depends on your Medicaid health insurance plan and the specific benefits available to you. Not every Medicaid member will necessarily qualify.

Rockland County residents who have Medicaid and are interested in the program should contact their health plan or care manager and ask whether they offer a food-as-medicine, medically tailored food, or Project FoodBox benefit.

How to Apply

If you are interested in receiving food through the program:

1. Check your Medicaid health plan.
Contact the member-services number on the back of your Medicaid insurance card.

2. Ask about food benefits.
Tell the representative that you are interested in learning whether you qualify for a food-as-medicine or medically tailored food delivery benefit.

3. Ask whether Project FoodBox is available through your plan.
Your health plan can explain whether the program is included in your benefits and whether you meet the eligibility requirements.

4. Complete the enrollment process.
If you qualify, your health plan or participating provider can explain the next steps for enrollment and home delivery.

A Potential Resource for Rockland County Families

For residents facing higher grocery costs or difficulty accessing healthy food, programs like this may provide an additional source of nutritious food while supporting health and wellness.

Because eligibility and benefits can vary by Medicaid plan, residents should confirm coverage directly with their health insurance provider before enrolling.

You can also visit projectfoodbox.org for more information.