Hunger costs our nation $167.5 billion a year. There are strong associations between food insecurity and medical consequences. For low-income patients with diabetes, the risk of hospitalization increases 27% during the last week of the month vs. the first week of the month. For more information on the impact of food insecurity on health, click here.
Poverty and food insecurity have serious consequences for health – today and tomorrow. Trusted professionals, like medical providers, can play a critical role in connecting eligible, low-income patients with food and nutrition services and other benefits that can help move them towards food security and possible reduction in chronic illnesses such as diabetes.
From July 1,2021- June 30, 2022 the Screen and Intervene Program provided 280 food insecure patients with 13,460 pounds of shelf-stable and 1,182 pounds of perishable food through 6 health care partnerships.
Why Screen Patients for Food Insecurity and Intervene?
BVFB’s Screen & Intervene Program trains medical professionals to identify patients who may be struggling with hunger through a two-question screening as part of their normal intake process. If a patient screens positive, they are offered a 30-lb food box and given referrals to available resources in the community. Healthcare providers can also enroll patients with chronic conditions in the food prescription project, connecting them to medically tailored foods each month.
The Brazos Valley Food Bank partners with Health For All, CHI St. Joseph Health Regional Hospital, Veteran Clinic, Brazos County Health District, and The Prenatal Clinic for Screen & Intervene.
Ways To Get Involved
Volunteer
In order to supply clinics with chronic condition-friendly food, the food first needs to be packed into boxes. Click on “Volunteer” to learn more about how you can help the Screen and Intervene program through volunteering.
Donate
Become A Screen & Intervene Partner Site
If your clinic is interested in more information about Screen and Intervene, click here.