Dignity Health delivers food to homebound patients in need

SANTA MARIA, Calif. - Dozens of patients at Dignity Health Home Health, Hospice and Infusion have a new food and essential items resource during the COVID-19 crisis.

The new Dignity Health Food Pantry was set up for homebound patients experiencing or at risk of food insecurity.

The pantry is stocked with both shelf-stable food items and other essential items as a supplement to the resources offered by the local foodbanks.

Many isolated seniors rely on the support of local foodbanks, whose resources are stretched beyond the current community need.

The Mark & Dorothy Smith Family Foundation stepped in to help fund and establish the Dignity Health Food Pantry.

Kathy Sullivan, PhD, RN, Vice President of Post-Acute Care Services, Central Coast Division, Dignity Health said, “This very meaningful donation allows for volunteers and staff members alike to provide a true safety net to isolated and medically-fragile individuals."

On Tuesday, May 5, four cars delivered bags filled with groceries and sanitary goods to 62 housebound patients in Santa Maria.

For years, The Mark and Dorothy Smith Family Foundation has supported healthcare needs in the community, including the Heart Center, the Cornerstone Campaign to build Marian’s new hospital, and patients in need at Marian Extended Care Center.