Becker’s Healthcare Podcast Tackling Food Insecurity with Compassion and Community Partnerships at La Rabida Children's Hospital
Jun 28, 2025
K. Sarah Hoehn, Chief Medical Officer at La Rabida Children’s Hospital, shares insights on combating food insecurity among vulnerable families. Discussing innovative pantry programs, Hoehn emphasizes the emotional impact of hunger on children. The conversation also explores collaborations with local urban farms and initiatives like a garden supplying fresh produce. By addressing food access in healthcare, La Rabida aims to enhance overall wellness for patients and their families, advocating for community support in this vital mission.
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Free-Access Food Pantry Model
- La Rabida modeled their food pantry after University of Chicago's Feed First pantries to reduce barriers to food access.
- Families can freely take non-perishable staples anytime without permission, improving engagement and meeting immediate hunger needs.
Clinic Pantry Impact on Families
- La Rabida's clinic food pantry has served about 3,500 individuals in one year.
- Families report it is a lifesaver that helps stretch their food budgets and supports their SNAP benefits.
Fresh Food Complements Pantry Staples
- Providing only non-perishable food can limit nutrition; families also need access to fresh produce, dairy, and proteins.
- Combining food pantries with local urban farms and starting gardens can help supply healthier options to patients and staff.