Saint Peter’s Healthcare System Launches New Food Pantry to Tackle Food Insecurity and Improve Patient Health in New Brunswick

Saint Peter’s Healthcare System in New Brunswick has recently launched a new initiative called The Market at Saint Peter’s Family Health Center. This food pantry aims to tackle food insecurity and other environmental factors that can impact patient wellbeing. The Market offers a range of items, including fresh produce, canned foods, packaged ingredients, and baby care and feminine hygiene products. Patients can access the pantry by appointment on weekdays.

Leslie D. Hirsch, president and CEO of Saint Peter’s Healthcare System, highlighted the importance of addressing food insecurity as part of the organization’s mission to improve patient health. He stated that The Market will provide food by prescription to those in need. Additionally, the Family Health Center where The Market is located was recently expanded thanks to a $5 million state budget appropriation. In addition to addressing food insecurity, the Center focuses on 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 significance of addressing environmental factors that impact patient outcomes. She stated that the organization is actively working to mitigate these effects by providing access to quality medical care, nutritious food, transportation assistance and more. For example, patients with conditions like diabetes may struggle to access better nutrition which can lead to negative health outcomes. By addressing these environmental stressors, Saint Peter’s Healthcare System aims to improve overall patient health and wellbeing.