CUHCC and Abbott Fund Distribute Healthy Produce and Improve Access to Care

On a beautiful Wednesday afternoon in August, individuals and families are gathered in the parking lot outside Community-University Health Care Center (CUHCC) in the Ventura Village area of South Minneapolis. Neighbors came from nearby homes and apartment buildings to take advantage of the fresh, seasonal produce being offered, free of charge, by The Sanneh Foundation and Second Harvest Heartland.

“We had maybe 100 families at this distribution a month ago,” says Katherine Pardue, nutritional services department manager for The Sanneh Foundation. “Now we’re up to 250 to 300 families.”

Abbott Fund, the philanthropic foundation of the global healthcare company, Abbott, is helping CUHCC, a University of Minnesota community clinic, host a fresh produce distribution for patients and neighbors. On the first and third Wednesday of each month, a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables—such as potatoes, carrots, cucumbers, and melons—are offered to the community, and CUHCC staff members are available to assist with setting up clinic appointments.

Cucumbers given out at a CUHCC distribution.

“At Abbott, we believe good health starts with access, not just to care, but to nutritious foods,” said Kathryn McKenzie, vice president of Abbott Fund. “These events are working to break down barriers to care and create healthier communities.”

Households facing hunger often also include family members living with chronic illnesses. By partnering with healthcare providers, the hunger-relief system can help contribute to better overall health outcomes for patients.

Abbott volunteers preparing to give out produce at a CUHCC distribution.

During a recent distribution at CUHCC, neighbors took home potatoes, carrots, zucchini, cucumbers, apples, blueberries, mangos, watermelon, corn, and onions. The in-season, ripe watermelons were the biggest hit, with many bringing rolling carts to carry the heavy produce back to their nearby homes. 

“These community-driven solutions are enhancing food security,” said McKenzie, “and we are grateful to Second Harvest Heartland, CUHCC, and The Sanneh Foundation for continuing to help people live better, healthier lives.”  

About Community-University Health Care Center (CUHCC)

CUHCC provides medical, dental, and behavioral health services to nearly 12,000 patients per year. The majority of patients are BIPOC, immigrants, and refugees and live below federal poverty levels. To support patients’ social needs, the clinic offers supportive services such as pro bono legal services, health insurance navigation services, onsite interpreters in 10 languages, advocacy services to victims of violence, and more. As a community clinic, CUHCC serves everyone regardless of their ability to pay. It also offers a Sliding Fee Discount Program that reduces visit fees for people who qualify. For more information, visit cuhcc.org.