New Health, a health center affiliated with Mass General Hospital and Boston Medical Center, is taking a holistic approach to care by directly providing fruits and vegetables to patients in need. This initiative was developed in response to the increasing food insecurity seen in their patient population. During a recent visit by WBZ-TV cameras to the New Health location in Charlestown, they observed the food distribution in action.
Once a month, New Health purchases bags of fresh fruits and vegetables to distribute to patients who have been notified in advance. The produce includes items like bananas, apples, oranges, avocados, asparagus, onions, and potatoes. The impact of this initiative extends beyond the individual patients who receive the produce as many patients share it with others in need. This extends the reach of the program to help 10 to 15 people each time a bag is distributed. Any leftover produce is placed in a community refrigerator for anyone in need to access.
Patient Carmen Tirado expressed gratitude for the help provided by the program, highlighting the importance of supporting those in the community who are facing food insecurity. According to Coakley, the positive feedback and impact of the program continue to drive their commitment to providing this resource to everyone in need. This initiative not only addresses food
