Based on Feeding America’s Hunger in America 2014 survey, people who receive help from food banks:
Not everyone can say with certainty that they will have food for their next meal. Sadly, that’s the case for the more than 200,000 Idahoans who are food insecure. The Idaho Foodbank is working in collaboration with healthcare partners to make it easier for Idahoans who are food insecure and have health issues to get the food they need to promote better health.
For several years, The Idaho Foodbank has been focused on obtaining more fresh fruits and vegetables for distribution. Greater support from Idaho’s agricultural community and an increase in the number of grocery stores participating in our Food Rescue program have pushed the percentage of donated food considered nutritious to 80%.
Now, we are working in collaboration with healthcare partners to make it easier for Idahoans who are food insecure and have health issues to get the food they need to promote better health.
Fresh fruits and vegetables can be some of the most expensive items in your grocery cart. This collaborative allows the hunger challenged to have access to this very important food group while stretching their food budget dollar.
Lynn Dill, Food Sourcing Manager, The Idaho Foodbank
Individuals who are food insecure are at higher risk of developing a chronic disease. Many of Idaho’s most common chronic diseases are diet-related including obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. The right diet can reduce a person’s risk of getting these diseases. Or, if a person has already been diagnosed, help manage it effectively.
Stable access to nutritious food can help the people we serve before the medical bills start stacking up.
Karen Vauk, President and CEO, The Idaho Foodbank
DON’T OVERLOOK LEFTOVERS The following are some clever and creative ways for recycling last night’s holiday buffet into savory breakfast dishes: Turkey and Stuffing Quiche Loaded Mashed Potato Pancakes: http://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/268536/loaded-mashed-potato-pancakes/ A Yummy Breakfast Burrito!
Watching your salt intake can be a challenge; especially during the holiday season. The American Heart Association recommends that the average person’s intake of sodium should be 2300 mg. If you have high blood pressure or other heart issues it is recommended that you consume less than 1500 mg per day. This is tough to […]
Did you know that your oral health in can affect the rest of your body? Studies suggest that oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with gum disease (periodontitis) could play a role in serious health issues such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, premature birth and pneumonia. That is why The Idaho Foodbank has partnered with […]
Sugar is found naturally in some foods and drinks, like fruit and milk, but it is also added to many of them. Added sugars give these items a sweet taste. Most Americans get too many calories from added sugars and over time this may affect their weight and health.
As part of the “Hunger To Health” initiative, The Idaho Foodbank has actively developed relationships with healthcare organizations to create co-locating partnerships; a collaboration of food bank and medical services at one shared location to address the needs of clients in a specific community. One such successful combination of these community services is the partnership with St. Mary’s and Clearwater Valley Hospitals and Clinics based in Cottonwood and Orofino Idaho.
Jim, a 64 year-old Nampa resident, was diagnosed with diabetes in September 2018. Always seeking the quickest means of satiating hunger – processed foods, microwave dinners, fast food – the idea of taking a cooking class was a bit daunting for Jim. However, the thought of daily insulin shots was a powerful motivator.
May is Older Americans Month and this year the theme is Connect, Create, Contribute. How can we eat for our mental health? As part of connecting, eating around friends or in social situations can boost mental health just by enjoying the company around you, as well as eating a variety of foods and incorporating exciting and delicious meals to the mix.
These little tasty morsels are packed with nutrients and flavor. They are a fun twist on your regular holiday side dish! Avocados are packed with micronutrients and healthy fats to keep you full and satisfied throughout the day. Try these out at your next holiday gathering, they are sure to be a big hit!
The Idaho Foodbank is now working in collaboration with healthcare partners to make it easier for Idahoans who are food insecure and have health issues to get the food they need to promote better health.
In July of 2016 the Idaho Medical Association, with sponsorship by the Idaho Academy of Family Physicians, and support from the Idaho Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics passed a resolution that recognizes hunger as a social determinant of health. The resolution also acknowledges The Idaho Foodbank as an important healthcare partner. Since this resolution was passed, healthcare professionals across Idaho have been encouraged to include hunger-related questions in patient screenings and offer the pantry referrals to those who need food assistance. This is an important step towards a healthier Idaho.
Participating healthcare organizations such as community clinics include food insecurity questions in their patient screening. If the need for food is indicated, the patient is referred to a local food pantry. Healthcare organizations with the physical space can provide their own food pantry on site.
Thank You to the Following Organizations
