(April 26, 2017) Columbia, SC- Lexington Medical Center is providing a $10,000 grant to Harvest Hope Food Bank, with the goal of establishing three diabetic-friendly pantries in Lexington County. The pantries will be housed in three of Harvest Hope Food Bank’s Partner Agencies.
More than 12% of Lexington county residents are food insecure, meaning they lacked the ability to provide adequate food for their families at least once in the last 12 months. Due to lack of resources individuals who are food insecure often rely on low cost sodium and sugar filled food alternatives that can exacerbate chronic health conditions such as diabetes.
The food choices for the pantries were chosen in consultation with registered dietitians and with the SC Office of the American Diabetes Association. The pantries will also include educational information on healthy eating, weight loss, living with diabetes and other resources to help clients form long-term strategies for managing their diabetes and improving their general health.
“This is a wonderful example of how two organizations with long term roots in Lexington can work together to continue to improve their community,” said Denise Holland, Harvest Hope CEO. “We’re thrilled about this partnership and look forward to helping those most in need.”
Those interested in more information or who wish to support Harvest Hope Food Bank should visit www.harvesthope.org or call 803-254-4432.
