Denver Health is responding to ongoing concerns about food insecurity as the federal government shutdown continues and the Nov. 1 cutoff of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits approaches. The healthcare provider, known as the city’s safety-net system, is taking action to address what it calls a pending public health crisis.
According to Denver Health, the disruption of SNAP benefits will have significant effects on various groups in the community, including children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with disabilities. Local food banks are facing increased demand due to millions of dollars in federal food aid for Colorado being put on hold.
“Every day, Denver Health providers connect with families who share their deepest concerns, and many share the need for food resources. Our community partners are always there to step in and help,” said Julie Venci, MD, Internal Medicine and Pediatrics physician and co-lead of community engagement programs at Denver Health’s Federico F. Peña Family Health Center. “Malnutrition and hunger unnecessarily lead to more serious health issues that ultimately are preventable with access to food.”
Dr. Venci works alongside Carolina Guitierrez, MD, on the Produce Prescription Program. This initiative aims to reduce food insecurity in Southwest Denver by linking patients with fresh produce and nutrition education.
Denver Health notes that those already managing chronic or complex health conditions face greater risks if SNAP benefits end.
With support from donors through the Denver Health Foundation, over $37,000 is being distributed among several local organizations that provide food assistance services:
– Bienvenidos Food Bank
– Denver Food Rescue
– Food Bank of the Rockies
– Montbello Walks
– Montbello Organizing Committee (FreshLo Hub)
– Project Angel Heart
– RE:VISION
– Servicios de la Raza
– Sun Valley Kitchen
Denver Health stated its appreciation for all community partners addressing social determinants of health.
