The Agnesian HealthCare Foundation, in partnership with the Fondy Food Pantry, has awarded a $5,000 gift to support food insecure patients served by SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital as part of the organization’s ongoing commitment to addressing social determinants of health.
The gift will fund food bags for patients who are identified for food insecurity during hospital intake, helping ensure patients have access to nutritious food following discharge. The initiative aligns with SSM Health’s food insecurity efforts to focus on screening Medicare and Medicaid patients and connecting those in need with food resources.
“This grant reflects the Agnesian HealthCare Foundation’s commitment to meeting patients where they are and supporting programs that have a meaningful, immediate impact,” according to Mason Gravelle, Agnesian HealthCare Foundation philanthropy director. “Access to food is foundational to health, and we are proud to support a program that helps patients during a vulnerable time and strengthens the care provided across our communities.”
The food insecurity screening and intervention program was piloted in 2024 and continues to expand. Patients who demonstrate a need connect with care management staff and offered food resources, including take-home food bags when appropriate. The program serves an estimated 80 to 110 patients annually and includes options for individuals who may not have access to cooking facilities.
“Food insecurity is a real and ongoing challenge for many of the patients we serve,” says Laura Nakielski, SSM Health community health specialist, senior. “This generous support from the Agnesian HealthCare Foundation allows us to provide immediate assistance while also working toward longer-term solutions, such as connecting patients directly with community food pantries and resources.”
In addition to supporting individual patients, the program contributes to SSM Health’s broader efforts to improve health outcomes by addressing non-medical factors that impact well-being. As the program continues to evolve, leaders hope to reduce reliance on food bags by strengthening referral pathways and community partnerships.
“This gift is incredibly meaningful for the patients served at St. Agnes Hospital and for our broader community,” says David Diaz, executive director of Fondy Food Pantry. “By partnering with the Agnesian HealthCare Foundation and SSM Health, we’re able to meet people at a critical moment – when they’re leaving the hospital and need support the most. Ensuring access to healthy food after discharge not only helps patients recover but reinforces that their well-being matters.”
The Agnesian HealthCare Foundation supports programs and initiatives that enhance patient care, improve community health, and advance the mission of SSM Health through philanthropic investment.
Deb Winterhack (right with check), Agnesian HealthCare Foundation director of development, presents a $5,000 gift to Kim Hughes and other Fondy Food Pantry representatives, including Mary Shettsline, Sally Boatman, Mike Hayes, Deb Kurzinsky, and David Diaz. They are joined by other SSM Health Samaritan Clinic representatives, including Kyleigh Tucker (left holding bag), Lisa Kunkel (back room, second from right), and Marilyn Schumacher (holding bag on right).