Cooper University Health Care just received a $19,300 grant from the Camden Food Security Collective, thanks to support from the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation and the Food Bank of South Jersey. This funding will help Cooper tackle food insecurity and other social needs in Camden through its Community Health Worker (CHW) program.
Cooper’s CHW team will work at eight corner stores across Camden, partnered with The Food Trust. This Philadelphia-based nonprofit aims to make healthy food accessible in urban areas. CHWs will be on-site regularly to help residents find essential resources and enroll them in ongoing support services.
In Camden County, food insecurity affects about 9.7% to 11.6% of the population, according to the New Jersey Department of Health. This issue highlights the urgent need for support in the community.
The CHWs will use the CooperUnite digital platform to assist residents in accessing benefits like SNAP, food pantries, housing services, and job opportunities.
“This grant allows us to engage more deeply with the Camden community and provide crucial support right where people live and shop,” said Elizabeth Nice, vice president of Cooper Care Alliance. She emphasized the vital role CHWs play in addressing food insecurity.
Danielle Santiago-Roach, who manages social determinants of health initiatives for Cooper, echoed this sentiment. She noted that the grant strengthens their community-focused approach, enabling CHWs to empower residents toward healthier, more stable lives.
Cooper’s CHWs collaborate with doctors and local organizations to create tailored care plans. Patients undergo screenings that identify various social factors affecting their health, such as access to food or transportation. This way, they can be connected with the right resources.
This initiative not only addresses immediate needs but also sets the stage for long-term well-being in the community. By focusing on food security, Cooper University Health Care is making strides toward a healthier Camden.
