No patient leaves hungry

SANDUSKY — The Firelands Center for Coordinated Care, under the umbrella of Firelands Health, recently launched a Food is Medicine pantry program in partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank of North Central Ohio. The initiative, known as Project Nourish, "was created to ensure no patient leaves (the center) hungry," according to an organizational statement. "By offering nutritious food during medical visits, we're helping patients manage chronic conditions while also removing a key barrier, which is access and transportation to healthy food sources," said Jim Spicer, vice president of operations and chief administrative officer for Firelands Health. During routine medical visits, patients are screened for food insecurity using questions recommended by leading health organizations. If a patient identifies as food insecure, then that person is offered healthy food at no charge during an office visit with information on how to access additional food resources in the community. Each bag contains a variety of shelf-stable, nutritious items provided by Second Harvest, designed to support a balanced diet and help meet immediate needs. "We know that good health starts at home," said Amanda Clarkson, a registered dietitian nutritionist with the center. "With Project Nourish, we're helping patients take the first step toward better health one meal at a time." The Firelands Center for Coordinated Care supports primary care providers in managing patient health through a team-based approach. The center has a wide range of specialized clinics and services. Community members who would like to support Project Nourish through food or monetary donations or learn more about the center are encouraged to contact the center at 419-557-6550 or fccc@firelands.com.