Baptist Health employees address community hunger during 100 Days of Service
Louisville, KY (Nov. 19, 2024) - Baptist Health hospital and physician office employees stepped up to fight hunger by donating nearly $29,000 worth of food and more than $6,800 in cash donations in April to nine community partner associations in Kentucky and Indiana during the 100 Days of Service marking the health system’s centennial.
During Baptist Health’s 100 Days of Service campaign in April, the focus was on reducing food insecurity in the communities it serves
Baptist Health Paducah, Baptist Health Richmond, Baptist Health Corbin, Baptist Health Hardin, Baptist Health La Grange and Baptist Health Deaconess Madisonville ranked food insecurity among one of its community’s most pressing health concerns. Hospital efforts to battle food insecurity are rooted in the health system’s history. In its early days, Kentucky Baptist Hospital not only served nutritious meals to patients, but volunteers delivered food to patient families.
“Ensuring good nutrition isn't just about eating; it's about nourishing your body with a variety of foods. Access to healthy food is essential healthcare,” said Caitlyn Tennyson, a registered dietitian who serves as the health system’s clinical nutrition manager.
“The Baptist Food and Nutrition Services system team is proud to include a food drive in the 100 Days of Service. By coming together, we're not only helping those with food insecurity, but also showing our commitment to wellness for all.”
What’s food insecurity?
Food insecurity is defined as not only a lack of sufficient food, but also uncertainty about where the next meal will come from. In Kentucky, 1 in 8 people (579,770 individuals) are facing hunger, and 154,290 of that number are children. In Indiana, 1 in 9 people (730,480 individuals) are facing hunger, with 204,290 children among them.
Because so many children are impacted by hunger, the Baptist Health food drive emphasized items that are easily prepared without assistance, such as microwaveable items with pull tab lids. Donations were also accepted to assist food bank partners with overhead costs, and to purchase additional food items.
“We asked our employees to join this effort in whatever way felt most meaningful, whether by donating food or funds,” said Food Drive Chair Cindy Gueltzow, system vice president, Supply Chain.
In 2024, Baptist Health celebrates its 100th anniversary, and will mark each month with a health-related “gift” to its communities.
The original Kentucky Baptist Hospital in Louisville opened its doors in November 1924 following years of rallying community support and fundraising. Baptist Health has since expanded to nine hospitals and more than 2,700 licensed beds, reaching nearly 75 percent of Kentucky residents and a wide swath of southern Indiana.