Both the Medical Center and the Food Bank work to provide food and nutrition security to the community.

At the Los Angeles General Medical Center, healthcare goes beyond prescriptions and exam rooms. Through a powerful partnership with the LA Regional Food Bank and the CARES Auxiliary Program, food distribution has become a vital extension of patient care, addressing both food and nutrition insecurity in one of LA County’s most underserved communities.

A Lifeline for Hundreds of Neighbors

Twice a month, hundreds of families gather at the Medical Center for food distributions that provide essential staples like fresh protein, produce, and shelf-stable items. According to CARES Executive Director Maritza Hernandez, on average, between 300 and 600 individuals rely on these events, with some neighbors arriving as early as 5 a.m., four hours before distribution begins, underscoring just how critical this resource has become.

“They could possibly go and find a pantry elsewhere, but a lot of times they feel comfortable coming here; this is where they receive their medical care,” Hernandez said. “Having this resource available to our patients, to our community, is just essential.”

For many, this support eases financial strain and stretches limited household budgets. For others, it’s the difference between having enough to eat and going without.

Food as Medicine: A Growing Healthcare Priority

Dr. Manuel Campa, a physician at the Medical Center, highlights the growing role of “food as medicine” in treating chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol. Access to nutritious food is not just helpful, it’s essential.

“With food as medicine, we try to emphasize a certain group of foods, a healthy diet, habits, and patterns that can help support and manage patients with their chronic disease, along with other medications that we provide,” Dr. Campa said. 

Healthy eating patterns can significantly improve patient outcomes, complement medical treatments, and reduce long-term health risks. By integrating food access into healthcare, the Medical Center is helping patients better manage their conditions while improving overall well-being in a place they know and trust.

Community Effort, Lasting Impact

Programs like this demonstrate what’s possible when healthcare and hunger relief intersect. By recognizing food as a critical component of health, the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank and L.A. General Medical Center are not only feeding people, they are helping them heal.

As the need continues to rise, so does the importance of helping our neighbors have access to nutritious food. Consider donating to the Food Bank and making a positive impact in your community.