Mega Doctor News
EDINBURG, Texas – DHR Health recently announced its partnership with the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley to launch its new food pantry which is designed to support patients experiencing food insecurity and promote better health outcomes for individuals and families in the community. A news conference announcement was held at the Food Bank in the early part of November. The food pantry will provide essential, non-perishable nutritious food items at no cost to patients who are at risk of hunger or have limited access to nutritious meals.
“As a healthcare provider, DHR Health is committed to comprehensive care,” said Marissa Castaneda, Senior Executive Vice President for DHR Health. “We recognize the vital role that nutrition plays in patient recovery and long-term health,” said Castaneda who mentioned that the food pantry is open to qualifying patients and offers a variety of food options tailored to specific dietary needs, including low-sodium, diabetic-friendly, and heart-healthy selections.
“Our goal with the food pantry is to bridge the gap between medical care and nutrition,” said Lauren Boeta-Lopez, Health Equity Officer and Food Pantry Coordinator at DHR Health. “By providing healthy food options, we’re not only supporting our patients in their recovery but also in maintaining their health after they leave our care. Patients have told us that taking food items home for themselves and their families, helps to alleviate the stress of food insecurity during such times of critical need,” said Boeta-Lopez.
To stock its food pantry, food items are given to DHR Health from the Food Bank of the RGV. In turn, the food pantry is available to DHR Health patients who have been screened for food insecurity via hospital caseworkers and/or staff, ensuring all who need support can access it easily and confidentially.
“The partnership between DHR Health and the Food Bank RGV shows our commitment to ensuring no one in our community goes without healthy and nutritious food,” said Libby Saenz, CEO of Food Bank RGV. “We’re proud to welcome them as part of our network of 275 partner agencies serving the Rio Grande Valley.”
This initiative aligns with DHR Health’s commitment to community wellness and reducing barriers to health resources. For more information on the patient pantry, please call (956) 362-2050.
