The challenges faced by women battling breast and ovarian cancer extend beyond medical treatment; they also often grapple with food insecurity. FarmboxRx, a Boston-based food-as-engagement company, has recognized this significant issue and taken steps to address it in partnership with Unite for HER, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing integrative therapies for these women. Their collaborative initiative allows eligible participants to receive a free weekly delivery of healthy groceries, including freshly picked seasonal fruits and vegetables.
The Scope of the Problem
Statistics reveal a stark reality: one in eight American women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, making it the most prevalent cancer among women in the United States. Many of these women face food insecurity, a situation worsened by the fatigue and sickness associated with chemotherapy. The combination of hospital visits, family responsibilities, and the struggle to maintain a healthy diet creates an overwhelming scenario for those affected.
Ashley Tyrner-Dolce, founder and CEO of FarmboxRx, emphasizes the company’s commitment to women’s health. “Our collaboration with Unite for HER exemplifies how organizations with common goals can work together to make a meaningful difference,” she stated. The impact of their partnership goes beyond just providing food; it aims to foster health literacy and empower women to advocate for their own health by participating in regular screenings.
Impact of the Partnership
This collaboration leverages the concept of “Food as Medicine,” enabling accessible, nutritious options to patients right at their doorstep. Each delivery is not just about food; it includes educational materials designed to enhance health literacy among participants, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health.
Moreover, FarmboxRx has demonstrated that access to nutritious food significantly influences health outcomes. Data show that participants in their programs exhibit a 53% higher engagement rate in preventive health screenings compared to those who utilize standard digital health engagement tools. Nicole Hungate, a cancer survivor and product strategy consultant at FarmboxRx, highlights the importance of early detection for breast cancer, whereby patients diagnosed early have nearly a 100% survival rate.
Nutrition as a Form of Support
Recognizing that many participating women may lack access to fresh produce in their communities, FarmboxRx and Unite for HER have taken proactive measures to ensure that these nutritional needs are met. “We are proud to partner with FarmboxRx to nourish participants across the nation,” stated Sue Weldon, the founder and CEO of Unite for HER. The program not only fosters community but also includes personalized support from registered dietitians, who offer guidance on nutrition and wellness, host cooking classes, and provide a library of resources focused on healthy living.
A Nationwide Initiative
FarmboxRx has made a significant impact, distributing millions of pounds of healthy grocery items and medically tailored meals throughout the United States. The initiative is accessible across all 50 states via partnerships with managed care organizations and health plans, making it a far-reaching support network for women diagnosed with cancer.
The focus on preventive healthcare through nutrition is critical for enhancing overall well-being during and after cancer treatment. By delivering fresh food directly to the homes of those in need, FarmboxRx aims to radically change the landscape of health engagement and improve health outcomes for women navigating cancer treatment.
Conclusion
FarmboxRx and Unite for HER are setting a powerful example of how food insecurity and health challenges intersect. Their efforts illustrate the vital role nutrition plays in health recovery and prevention, particularly for women facing serious health concerns. As they continue to nourish lives across the nation, their model invites other organizations and businesses to consider how they can also contribute to the health and wellness of their communities.
As this partnership unfolds, it will undoubtedly shape the future of how we view food, health, and community support for vulnerable populations.
