AmeriHealth Caritas Volunteers Power Action Against Hunger through Community Food Drive for ElderNet

A round of winter weather on Dec. 2 didn't deter more than 50 AmeriHealth Caritas associates from teaming up with ElderNet volunteers to decorate, pack, and load dozens of grocery bags into waiting vehicles at the Ellis Preserve headquarters of AmeriHealth Caritas.

With trunks and backseats packed, the bags, full of non-perishable food items collected during a company-wide food drive, headed off to help older and disabled adults in Lower Merion Township, Pa. who face food insecurity.

AmeriHealth Caritas' Finance and Pharmacy teams, led by Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Christine Kourouklis, organized the food drive. Through in-person drop off and Amazon Wish List purchases, hybrid and remote associates donated more than 3,000 items that filled around 100 grocery bags.

"Support for this food drive was overwhelming, and contributions exceeded our original goals," said Christine Kourouklis, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. "Our associates consistently show that service is at the heart of AmeriHealth Caritas. By coming together to support ElderNet and help address food insecurity, we're living our mission to build healthier communities and make a meaningful difference for those most in need."

ElderNet plays a vital role in helping older and disabled adults remain in their homes with dignity while addressing food and financial insecurity for community members in need. Partnerships like this help the organization strengthen its outreach and impact.

"Food insecurity and social isolation remain two of the most urgent challenges for seniors in our community," said Michele Raymond, Executive Director of ElderNet. "Our pantry is more than a source of groceries; it's a place of connection, dignity, and support. Partnering with AmeriHealth Caritas helps us ensure that aging in our community means aging with security, respect, and belonging."

This local initiative builds on AmeriHealth Caritas' broader commitment to addressing food insecurity in the markets the company serves.

Over the past year, associates have dedicated nearly 37,000 volunteer hours to organizations working in this area as AmeriHealth Caritas and the AmeriHealth Caritas Foundation have provided millions in funding to organizations focused on increasing access to nutritious meals and building stronger, healthier communities.