Empowering VCU Massey Cancer Patients Through Nutrition
Food Resource Center
Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center
Adult Outpatient Pavilion (G-006)
Cancer patients face unique challenges, including increased nutritional needs and increased financial strain from medical expenses. These factors can lead to food insecurity, making it difficult for patients to access nutritious foods essential for their recovery. In response, we are building a Food Resource Center in the Adult Outpatient Pavilion (G-006).
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We are committed to transforming this space into a welcoming and accessible resource where patients will receive immediate food assistance and long-term support for food-related needs. Our aim is to create a national model for effective addressing food insecurity in cancer care, fostering a supportive environment that empowers patients on their journey.​​
Food Boxes
In partnership with Feed More, a leading food bank in Richmond, we receive 800lbs of food each month to assist patients who are food insecure. Each box contains a seasonally curated menu that includes essential canned goods and other nutritious items. Feed More serves as a vital resource in the community, working to alleviate hunger and food insecurity across Central Virginia by distributing millions of meals annually to those in need. This partnership helps us provide our patients with consistent access to food, supporting their overall health and well-being.
Voucher Program
To learn more about Shalom Farms...
Mailing Address
P. O. Box 11043
Richmond, Virginia 23230
Website: https://shalomfarms.org/
The Food is Medicine Voucher program – a collaboration with Shalom Farms – is an important extension of our existing initiatives aimed at improving health outcomes through better access to nutritious, locally sourced food. Patients can now receive a food box and up to two $5 food vouchers by visiting Eliot Turoff in the AOP, Ground Floor. Vouchers that can be redeemed at any Shalom Farm Mobile Market throughout the Richmond area. These markets bring fresh, nutrient-dense food directly to local neighborhoods, making it easier for participants to access healthy options within their community.
Unite Us Referral: Long-term Food Resources
At Massey, we believe in treating the whole person and providing holistic care. That is why we work with Unite Us to connect patients with long-term, sustainable food resources.
When patients fill out the Assistance Request Form, a member of the Unite Us Care Coordination Team follows up to ensure health, transportation, utilities, and other social determinants of health needs are met.
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Spanish version of flyer:
¿Necesita ayuda encontrando o conectándose con recursos en la comunidad? Para ayuda con alimentos, alojamiento, transporte, apoyo de pares u otros servicios, por favor visite este enlace https://uniteus.com/richmond-city-resources
Highlights
April 30, 2025
March 12, 2025
March 3, 2025
Feb. 28, 2025
Jan. 3, 2025
Dec. 9, 2024
Dec. 6, 2024
Dec. 3, 2024
Oct. 28, 2024
Oct. 1, 2024
May 1, 2025
June 3, 2025
June 4-5, 2025
Massey Food is Medicine team participates in Food As Medicine Summit in Chicago
Massey-Virginia Health Department Food Insecurity session held at the Richmond Westin (Short Pump)
Neicy Walls, Beth Humphries, and Shirelle Taylor join Food is Medicine team.
All complete SafeServ Food Handler certification.
Sr. Program Manager, Cindy Avila, speaks at Capital One Women in Tech Conference in Richmond, introducing AI-powered food resource app.
VCU Massey joins 200 organizations across the U.S. at the 2nd national Food is Medicine Advocacy Day on Capital Hill in Washington D.C.
IRB Approval for HM20032146 (Registry of Cancer Patients with Food Insecurity at Virginia Commonwealth University Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center)
15 active cancer patients and their caregivers participate in Massey's first on-site nutrition education and cooking demo, in partnership with VCU dieticians and chefs.
Fridge to store fresh produce from Shalom Farms delivered
First Shalom Farm food vouchers for discounted produce are distributed.
Food insecurity screening begins for all Massey cancer patients.
Eliott Turoff (Patient Family Support Coordinator) begins distributing food boxes.
800 lbs pallet arrives at Food Resource Center in first Feed More food box delivery.​
The Food Resource Center passes Feed More site inspection.
Storage cabinets are installed.
Sadia Robinson awarded SafeServ Food Handler certification.
Cindy Avila awarded SafeServ Food Manager certification.
McKesson grant funding begins.