Superior HealthPlan, a managed care organization in Texas and part of Centene Corporation, is collaborating with 20 schools across the state to implement the No One Eats Alone (NOEA) program this February. The initiative aims to help students recognize and address social isolation. The Centene Foundation, Centene’s philanthropic arm, sponsors the program.
Mitch Wasden, president and CEO of Superior HealthPlan, stated, “The No One Eats Alone program has been incredibly impactful since we introduced the initiative to Texas schools ten years ago. By providing students with meaningful tools to recognize and address social isolation, we can help them better understand the issues their peers may be experiencing and support them in creating a more connected, inclusive community.”
The NOEA program is organized nationally by Sandy Hook Promise and will reach over one million students in the United States this year. In Texas, participating schools include campuses in cities such as Wichita Falls, San Antonio, Odessa, Lubbock, Waco, Tyler, Corpus Christi, San Benito, Los Fresnos, Weslaco, Austin, Brownsville, Socorro, Harlingen, Houston and Santa Rosa.
According to information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), social isolation and loneliness are linked to an increased risk of serious mental and physical health conditions. Former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy identified NOEA as an effective peer-led program that builds self-esteem and fosters social connections among students.
The NOEA initiative targets 5th through 8th grade students who often face challenges related to social skills and belonging during lunch periods. The curriculum includes interactive lessons focused on understanding differences and building common ground among classmates through art projects and peer leadership activities.
Sandy Hook Promise offers the No One Eats Alone program nationwide. More details about their work can be found at https://www.sandyhookpromise.org/.
Superior HealthPlan serves two million people across all 254 Texas counties with a workforce of 3,600 employees statewide. Since 2020 it has provided $12.3 million in grants and sponsorships supporting low-income communities.
The Centene Foundation focuses on investing in economically challenged communities by supporting projects that improve healthcare access, social services and education outcomes.
Sandy Hook Promise Action Fund works on policies promoting gun safety and youth mental health at both state and federal levels as part of its mission to prevent violence against children.
