11/15/2025
When Amber McComsey (1st photo, 2nd from left) heard about a Highmark Wholecare free farmers' market in a neighboring county, she knew she wanted to bring this to her Columbia community.
“Our area has a high percentage of individuals who struggle with food insecurity," said the pediatric care manager at Family Medicine Twin Rose. “As a healthcare system we talk about the importance of proper nutrition, but fresh food is often an expensive choice.”
Amber reached out to Highmark Wholecare and the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank to make it happen. Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health employee volunteers from primary care, pharmacy, and population health were on hand to help Highmark Wholecare and the Central PA Food Bank distribute the food at a November 13 event at Twin Rose. In total, 530 families received 10,360 pounds of food, marking the largest distribution Highmark Wholecare has ever supported.
“We had a little squash and carrots remaining that we donated to local outreach programs at Columbia Dream Center and Historic Salem United Church of Christ, Columbia PA,” said Amber.
“The goal of this event was to provide free, fresh produce to community members without any barriers. No ID or income verification was required,” Amber explained.
She expressed her gratitude for the support she received from Twin Rose leaders, as well as local school districts who helped spread the word. A grant from the Herr Estate and gift card donation from Weis Markets allowed the team to also purchase and distribute personal care items, laundry detergent, and diapers at the event.
We are incredibly grateful for team members like Amber and the Twin Rose staff who go above and beyond to help meet the needs of our community.