Revolutionizing Community Health: Local Hospital Launches Innovative Drive-Thru Food Pantry

LIBERTY, Mo. — A line of cars snaked around the parking garage of The University of Kansas Health System’s Liberty Campus on a recent Friday. Attendees weren’t there for check-ups; they were there to secure fresh food for the weekend.

Families from Liberty and nearby towns like Kearney showed up for the monthly food distribution. Lynette Ealey expressed gratitude as her SUV was filled with produce. “It really helps my family,” she shared, highlighting the significance of such programs.

The need for assistance is growing. Phyllis Lehman, a retired resident, shared her challenges living on Social Security. “I have a mortgage and bills to pay,” she said, emphasizing her struggle to make ends meet.

Julie McCaw, executive director of the Redemptorist Social Services Center, noted a shift in the demographics using food pantries in Clay County. “It’s now mainly working families,” she said. A decade ago, the focus was on those who were outright poor. Today, the working poor face significant challenges as well.

To better serve this need, the hospital hosts the drive-thru event on Friday evenings, a strategic choice since most pantries are only open during the day—making it difficult for working families to access help. “People can’t always get to a food pantry that’s just open during office hours,” said Liberty Hospital’s nurse Jennifer Utz.

This initiative is unique; it’s the only hospital-based food pantry known in Missouri. McCaw pointed out that providing food fits perfectly into the hospital’s mission of promoting health.

During each event, volunteers distribute healthy fare, including fresh vegetables, fruits, and baked goods. Strikingly, the only canned food offered is tuna, aimed at providing protein. “When budgets are tight, people tend to buy cheaper, less nutritious options. We aim to change that dynamic,” McCaw said.

Interestingly, Ulz noted that as part of their medical intake, questions include whether individuals feel safe at home or worry about food security. “When we held our first pantry last September, over 600 people showed up. It highlighted the community’s needs,” she explained.

In just 45 minutes at the most recent event, they served 155 families from six counties. This reflects not just a growing demand, but also a community coming together to support each other.

Recent statistics highlight that food insecurity affects about 10.5% of Americans, a figure that has spiked in recent years due to rising costs and economic strain. Programs like this one are increasingly vital, helping to bridge the gap for families in need.

For more information and resources related to food assistance, you can refer to Harvesters.

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