Good nutrition is a foundation for good health. Yet, too many Rhode Islanders struggle with food insecurity. According to the Rhode Island Food Bank:
Through nutrition and food security programs across Rhode Island and Southern New England, the Community Health Institute (CHI) of Brown University Health helps more than 4,440 community members annually to access healthy food, build lifelong healthy habits, and prevent or manage chronic disease
Working alongside community organizations, healthcare providers, and public agencies, CHI connects individuals and families to the resources, education, and support they need to improve their health and well-being.
The Community Health Institute's nutrition and food security programs are improving access to healthy food, reducing food insecurity, and supporting healthier lives across Rhode Island and now Southern New England.
From food access and nutrition education to clinical nutrition support, CHI programs are designed to meet people where they are and address both immediate needs and long-term health outcomes.
Explore the programs below to learn more about services, eligibility, and referral information.
VeggieRX provides fresh, locally grown produce for individuals experiencing food insecurity and chronic disease. This program is in collaboration with Southside Community Land Trust. For information, contact us at 401-444-8009.
Food Is Medicine is a four-week course that teaches participants how to prepare healthy, affordable meals on a limited budget. Participants prepare and sample a dish each week. For information, contact Ana Almeida-DoRosário at [email protected] or call 401-444-8069.
A Taste of African Heritage is a six-week course exploring African heritage foods, culture, and nutrition. Participants prepare and sample a dish each week. For information, contact Ana Almeida-DoRosário at [email protected] or call 401-444-8069.
The Community Demonstration Kitchen provides cooking demonstrations and hands-on learning for healthier eating. Demonstrations can be held at our place or yours. For information, contact us at 401-444-8009.
SNAP Outreach provides application assistance and support navigating food assistance benefits. This program is in collaboration with RI Department of Human Services. For information, contact us at 401-444-8009.
Emergency Food Assistance helps secure emergency food support for patients experiencing acute food insecurity, as resources permit. For information, contact us at 401-444-8009.
Medically Tailored Meals assists with individualized meals and nutrition support for patients with cancer who are also experiencing food insecurity through a project funded by the American Cancer Society and delivered in collaboration with Meals on Wheels of RI. For information, contact us at 401-444-8009.
