FOOD is Medicine

We look forward to making food central to our health care model.

Thirty years ago, with the launch of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program, CCI began making sure that families had access to foods that support health and healthy growth. Last winter, those years of paying it forward brought a bounty of fresh, delicious food to CCI team members, thanks to the generosity of Glenstone Museum.

Glenstone’s culinary artists prepared box lunches laden with salads, sandwiches, fresh fruit, sides and a small dessert. Their targeted act of kindness paid homage to their core belief that “meaningful encounters begin with direct engagement.” It also gave us a glimpse of what it feels like to be nurtured through nutrients during hard times.

CCI’s work against food insecurity has continued to evolve through the years. In 2017, we added nutrition counseling and door delivery of fresh produce and vegetables for families served by our medical division. Today, in the aftermath of full bellies and thankful hearts, we prepare to take the next step in our food journey — the launch of a Food is Medicine Program. In the first phase, CCI will draw upon the expertise of our CCI–Greenbelt WIC Manager, Sidelle Haynes. Haynes is a chef and registered dietitian who will educate clinicians on nutrition principles and cooking techniques, supplementing clinicians’ training to include nutrition and food science, so they can become co-facilitators for Food is Medicine workshops. The Food is Medicine Program will also increase our patients’ knowledge of nutrition, its role in their health, and increase their confidence in preparing healthy meals at home.

We know that proper nutrition is a powerful tool for reversing the effects of chronic illness. In addition, Glenstone reminds us that food serves as a wonderful agent for strengthening bonds, providing comfort and communicating care.

Sonya Bruton, Psy.D., MPA President and CEO CCI Health & Wellness Services