Providence Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital's Nourish Food Pantry Brings Thanksgiving Cheer to Oncology Patients
This Thanksgiving, patients at Providence Round Barn Oncology Center in Santa Rosa can look forward to holiday meal kits, complete with a frozen whole chicken and seasonal ingredients, thanks to the hospital’s new Nourish Food Pantry.
Launched in recent months, Nourish provides nutritious food to patients diagnosed with cancer and their families, easing the burden of food insecurity during critical health moments.
“Nourish is more than a food pantry, it is a beacon of hope. It epitomizes our core values of compassion and dignity, demonstrating our commitment to not only heal but also enhance the well-being of each individual we serve,” said Katie Bower, RN, clinic nurse manager. “The Thanksgiving meal kits take this a step further and bring an additional layer of comfort to our patients during the holidays.”
A Pantry with Purpose
Unlike traditional food pantries, Nourish is seamlessly integrated into the oncology center, allowing patients to access food during medical visits. Stocked with fresh produce, pantry staples, and frozen proteins, the pantry ensures patients can focus on recovery without worrying about hunger. Since its launch, Nourish has distributed over 30,000 pounds of food, including culturally appropriate items to meet diverse dietary needs.
This partnership with the Redwood Empire Food Bank began in August 2024. The recent addition of a freezer has expanded offerings to include frozen proteins like chicken breast and skirt steak, helping patients maintain balanced diets essential to their recovery.
Holistic Care—One Meal at a Time
The idea for Nourish originated when staff noticed increased demand for snacks in the infusion room—a signal of deeper food insecurity among patients. Today, it stands as a testament to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital’s commitment to addressing patient needs beyond medical care.
"When the team from Providence first approached the Redwood Empire Food Bank, we were happy to help offer food to their patients,” said Kim Caffrey, Partner Resources Manager, Redwood Empire Food Bank.
“The very first week the pantry opened the food was quickly gone. Providence ramped up their offerings to meet the increased interest, presenting healthy, nourishing food in an appealing way. Patients greatly benefit from this extension of care. Their pantry's growth has been truly inspiring!"
Linda's Story
Linda, a resident of Santa Rosa and an ordained minister, experienced a significant shift in her life after a breast cancer diagnosis. She received subsequent treatment at Providence Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital’s Round Barn Oncology Center and support through the survivorship program at Providence’s Lynch Creek location in Petaluma.
“From Day 1, the Providence team was knowledgeable and welcoming; it made me feel better about my journey,” said Linda. “Their team is so loving, they not only treat the illness, they also make sure you also have the right food to eat and a roof over your head. I’ve never heard of a medical facility doing that. I’m senior, disabled and pretty much alone; they showed me someone cared.”
While undergoing treatment, Linda faced challenges common among many local patients, including financial strain and limited access to healthy food options. At Providence, Linda found nutrient rich meals to support her recovery and a care team that provides genuine support.
“When they asked me if I wanted a Thanksgiving meal box, it brought tears to my eyes,” she said. “I’ve learned to pay attention to what I’m putting in my body and this fresh, organic produce helps rebuild healthy cells.”
Linda never anticipated needing a food pantry but found the process seamless and incredibly supportive, integrated with the exceptional care she received at Providence.
Looking Ahead
Building on its success, Providence hopes to expand Nourish to other clinics across Northern California.
For more information about Nourish and its holiday meal program, contact Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital’s Round Barn Cancer Center at 707-528-1050.
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About Providence Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital
Providence, Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital is a nonprofit, full-service, 329-bed health care facility. Services include cancer, cardiac, critical care, emergency/a level II trauma center, maternity and infant care; neurosciences; orthopaedics; pediatrics, the neonatal intensive care nursery, and more. The hospital works collaboratively with other hospitals within Providence, as well as numerous outpatient facilities, affiliated physicians, home and community care, and Providence Medical Group providers, to ensure patients receive the highest level of care, close to home. For more information, visit www.providence.org.
