Saint Peter’s Healthcare System has opened a food pantry at their Family Health Center in an effort to address food insecurity and other issues. The Market will offer fresh produce, canned food, packaged ingredients, and baby care and feminine hygiene items to patients by appointment on weekdays.
According to Leslie D. Hirsch, president and CEO of Saint Peter’s Healthcare System, “Food insecurity and other environmental factors impact a patient’s overall well-being, and The Market is another iteration of Saint Peter’s mission to help people get better. This is going to be food by prescription for those that really have needs.”
The Family Health Center, located at 123 How Lane, was expanded earlier this year with the help of a $5 million state budget appropriation. In addition to addressing food insecurity, the center provides care for women’s health, pediatric health, and various types of adult care.
Dr. Alma Ratcliffe, vice president and chief clinical transformation officer of Saint Peter’s Healthcare System, emphasized the importance of addressing these factors to improve patient outcomes. “We recognize the significance of these factors and are actively working to mitigate their effects by providing access to quality medical care, nutritious food
