Dear Get Healthy SMC partners,

I’m Gloria Cahuich- González and I recently joined the Health Policy and Planning team as a Nutrition and Education Policy Specialist. In this role, I support the CalFresh Healthy Living Program by leading the San Mateo County Park Rx (prescription) program and the Champion Provider Fellowship. I work with providers, parks and public land partners to create healthy environments that promote healthy lifestyles. In addition, I work to address inequities in access to nature in the county’s eligible Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) communities.

As Co-chair of the San Mateo County Healthy Parks Healthy People Collaborative, I ensure the Park Rx program’s sustainability and infrastructure. I also work with four UCSF Champion Provider Fellows who share my passion to improve the health of our communities beyond the clinical setting. With their expertise and respected voices, the fellows support local policy, systems and environmental changes, focusing on key initiatives such as Nature Therapy and Food Medicine. I have over 20 years experience in public health nutrition, and I am deeply rooted in the community. I am excited to continue to use my expertise to create strong partnerships and lead effective programs to engage communities and advance equitable policies. You can reach me at gcgonzalez@smcgov.org.