Empowering Patients with MedStar Health
In 2018, Hungry Harvest joined forces with MedStar Health in a shared commitment to support patients and address food insecurity through the Food Rx program at MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital. This collaboration aims to provide a dignified food experience, address social drivers of health, improve long-term well-being, and advance health outcomes. Over the years, this program has expanded, feeding patients across the Maryland and DC region.
Food Rx: Fueling Health with Fresh Choices
Through the Food Rx initiative, patients enrolled in the program have received over 1,800 lbs. of frozen proteins, plus regular shipments of fresh fruits, vegetables, eggs, and whole grain bread from Hungry Harvest. This has resulted in more than 150 families creating over 11,000 healthy and nutritious meals and has significantly improved the health outcomes of patients living with chronic diseases.
Food Rx dietitians play a pivotal role in the program's success by practicing evidence-based medicine to address food-related "lifestyle" diseases. Through education and support, they emphasize the benefits of a plant-forward diet rich in fiber and colors, while minimizing starches, saturated fat, and sodium. The data collected over the past two years shows amazing improvements in clinical markers such as HbA1c (blood sugar), HDL (cholesterol), and triglycerides. These changes lead to a better quality of life and enhanced longevity for patients.
Growing Together
The MedStar Health & Hungry Harvest partnership now spans across nine programs in five MedStar Health hospitals, including MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center, and MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center. Additionally, the collaboration includes Community Health Associates (CHA) Referral Programs at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center, MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital, MedStar Harbor Hospital, and MedStar Union Memorial Hospital. In total, we’ve delivered almost 72,000 pounds of fresh food and served 800 patients across all the MedStar Health system partnerships since June 2022!
Addressing Food Insecurity
Food insecurity remains a pressing issue for many of our neighbors. The Food Rx program plays a vital role in supporting patients facing affordability and access challenges when it comes to healthy food. By providing direct-home-delivery, we’re reducing physical access barriers and ensuring food reaches those who need it the most.
Specifically in Baltimore City, food insecurity continues to impact residents, with 20% living below the federal poverty line compared to 9% across the state. According to the Maryland Food Bank, the number of Maryland residents affected by hunger or food insecurity has risen from 21% in 2013 to 33% today. The Food Rx program takes on a vital role in supporting patients facing challenges with affordability and access to healthy food.
Impact on Families
We’re so grateful to hear real-life stories and testimonials from those in the program!
One participant shared her story of how she and her daughter are embracing healthy cooking together. With better access to fresh produce, they’re exploring new recipes and cooking techniques, like a reduced-calorie, lower carb lasagna using eggplant and zucchini slices. Since the start of the program, they’ve been motivated to make improvements to their health together.
Another participant shared how his Hungry Harvest deliveries have not only improved his health but also introduced him to new vegetables. Learning different ways to prepare zucchini and other produce has not only contributed to his well-being but also given him a sense of empowerment and control over his health journey.
Nourishing Healthier Tomorrows
Our partnership with MedStar Health through our Food RX programs shows how collaboration between healthcare organizations and community-driven initiatives can make a significant difference in the lives of families facing food insecurity and health challenges. Access to fresh, nutritious food is not just a necessity but a catalyst for positive change, health improvement, and community transformation. Together with MedStar Health, we’re creating a brighter, healthier future for all!