FRRH medical patients are screened for food security with Hunger Vital Signs routinely. This screening helps to keep us informed of our patients’ nutritional levels. FRRH Food Shelf services are provided by an RN Care Team member who will address overall health and nutritious food options, in a clinic appointment setting.

FRRH Food Shelf is available to St. John Valley Residents at all of our clinics: Eagle Lake, Fort Kent & Madawaska. It is open and available during clinic hours, which includes early morning, late evening, and Saturday hours, beyond the typical Monday-Friday schedule.

The Fish River Food Shelf is made possible by employee payroll contributions, Community donations, (please see the donate button at the bottom of the page if you would like to contribute) fundraising, procurement of locally sourced food from local farmers and grocers, and Good Shepherd Food Bank. There is never a patient cost for this service, which we are very proud of. We annually distribute more than 40,000 pounds of nutritious food to those who need it.

FRRH’s Wellness 4 Life Coordinator provides easy-to-make recipes that help families make the most of the items they receive. The nurses actively listen to patients to find out what foods they like and don’t like, what foods will benefit any conditions they may have, and then tailoring their food offerings to meet their specific needs and preferences.

The nurses report that their visitors like having guidance on healthier options, like low sodium. We offer that extra support to give folks the tools to make eating healthy possible. We are here to help.

Here are just 5 ways eating a nutritious diet has an overall impact on good health:

Heart Health: A healthy diet can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease because eating heart-healthy foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins all help to keep blood pressure and cholesterol levels in control.

Reduced Cancer Risk: Antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, like those in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, are superstars. Eating a variety of them may lower the risk of certain cancers.

Memory Boost: Don’t starve your brain. Nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and, again, antioxidants, have a positive impact on thinking, problem solving skills, and memory. Include foods like fatty fish, nuts, and berries in your diet.

Diabetes Prevention and or control: A well-balanced diet helps regulate blood sugar levels and reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes. It you have diabetes already, a well-balanced diet that focuses on whole grains, lean proteins, and normal portion sizes, can stabilize blood sugar.

Strong Bones and Teeth: We start losing bone mass at a fairly early age, even at 30 years old, there can be some reduction. Be sure to get plenty of calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus, which are all essential for bone health. Dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods support strong bones and teeth.