National Nutrition Month: Feeding the Body and Soul

National Nutrition Month, observed each March, is more than a celebration of healthy eating – it’s a call to action to expand access to healthy food and improve nutrition in underserved communities.

Poor nutrition can lead to a wide range of diseases, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer, bone and muscle disorders. While the link between nutrition and physical well-being is highly documented, so too, is its connection to mental and emotional health. Yet, for those facing poverty, lack of transportation, and limited access to supermarkets, nutrition can fall by the wayside – replaced by unhealthy choices from fast food chains and convenience stores.

In an unwavering commitment to supporting the nutritional health of our communities and combating food insecurity, Whittier Street Health Center has established the following programs:

• WIC Nutrition Program: WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) office on-site at our Tremont Street Center; in addition, WIC staff visit Whittier at Quincy Commons twice weekly
• Fairfoods: Throughout the year, Whittier patients can obtain a large bag of produce for $2 each week through this food recovery program
• WSHC Community Garden: Each Thursday throughout the growing season, Whittier patients can attend our Garden Club from 10-11 a.m. and receive a free bag of freshly harvested produce
• Teaching Kitchen: Our teaching kitchen is located on the second floor next to the Community Education Room and Group rooms. Registered dieticians host cooking classes and demonstrations for patients in our Wellness, Healthy Weight, and Chronic Disease Management programs.
• Fresh Truck Mobile Market: Visits Whittier from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursdays, accepts food stamp/EBT benefits, and offers immediate reimbursement
• Food Pantry: Launched in 2018, our Food Pantry provides reliable and accessible food and nutrition services in our continuing effort to decrease food insecurity, and promote healthy diets and healthy families. Patients are screened during their doctor’s visits for referral to the pantry. Eligible patients receive a Prescription for Groceries and can obtain a bag of groceries monthly. Each bag includes items from each food group and meet USDA standards. Families also receive information on nutrition, and neighborhood Food Banks.

In addition, our team of registered dieticians offer comprehensive, individualized nutritional assessments and counseling.