A ribbon cutting was held Aug. 10 to celebrate the opening of a new food pantry at Family HealthCare Network. Photo contributed

Family HealthCare Network (FHCN) celebrated a ribbon cutting earlier this month commemorating its first-ever internal food pantry, located inside the health provider’s 250 W. 5th St. location in Hanford.

Partnering with the Kings Community Action Organization (KCAO), the pantry – a first of its kind for both organizations – will aim to serve patients struggling with food insecurity.

“Our new Hanford food pantry represents a key strategic effort by FHCN and KCAO to address the social determinants of health and food insecurity in Kings County,” a FHCN press release reads. “Because chronic health conditions and long-term health outcomes are significantly impacted by nutrition, this partnership serves as a vital link to the health of our communities.”

 

Patients identified as food insecure by FHCN’s Hanford center will be able to access dairy products, fruits and vegetables, meat and non-perishable foods.

Sporting the appearance of an everyday retail grocery store, the pantry is designed to provide patients a dignified experience, similar to that in a regular grocery store.

On Aug. 10, FHCN and KCAO hosted a celebratory ribbon cutting, inviting patients, dignitaries and community members the opportunity to see the pantry firsthand.

The food pantry will operate Tuesday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for qualifying patients.