Southcoast Health Launches Free Meal Program for SouthCoast Residents

For too many people on the SouthCoast, finding something to eat each day can be a challenge. Imagine starting each day wondering where your next meal is coming from. Worrying about farm fresh food and things like nutrition aren't even part of the equation, but Southcoast Health is looking to change that.

Southcoast Health Launches Cooks for Community to Deliver Fresh Meals

Southcoast Health has partnered with the Marion Institute, Frogfoot Farm, and local chef Danny Minkle to launch Cooks for Community, a new pilot program designed to bring fresh, nutritious meals to some of the region’s most vulnerable residents.

The  program is brand new. It kicked off earlier this month and will run through the end of the year, thanks to funding from Southcoast Health.

Each week, Chef Danny prepares 50 healthy meals made from fresh produce and locally sourced ingredients. The meals are then distributed by Southcoast Health’s Community Health and Wellness team to people who are unhoused or unable to cook for themselves. By the end of the year, the program is expected to provide a whopping 1,000 meals across the SouthCoast.

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Farmers, Chefs, and Healthcare Join Forces

“Cooks for Community is such a beautiful example of what happens when local farmers, chefs, and healthcare partners come together for a common purpose,” said Liz Wiley, Executive Director of the Marion Institute. “By transforming fresh produce from Frogfoot Farm into nourishing meals, we’re not just feeding people, we’re strengthening the health and resilience of our community.”

Supporting Food Security

This program also reflects Southcoast Health’s mission to improve health and wellbeing across the region.

“Southcoast Health is proud to support innovative programs that increase food security and health promotion,” said Alison LeBert, Southcoast Health Community Health and Wellness Manager. “By funding this pilot, we are investing in a healthier future for our region and showing what can be accomplished when healthcare and local partners work together.”