The Friends of Reading Hospital, in collaboration with the Reading Hospital Foundation, brought a splash of color and a showcase of artistic cuisine to Redner's Event Center at FirstEnergy Stadium on March 28 with their new “Farm to Table(aux)” event.
A total of 315 people attended the event, inspired by the artwork of Andy Warhol. Together, they raised more than $100,000 for the hospital's Food as Medicine program, which highlights the importance of a healthy diet in preventing and treating disease.
“Good health begins with good nutrition,” Charles F. Barbera, MD, President and CEO of Reading Hospital, said. “But we understand that not everyone has access to nutritious foods. Food as Medicine helps address both food insecurity and nutrition education throughout our community.”
By combining direct food assistance with comprehensive education and support, Food as Medicine helps our community build stronger foundations for lasting health and wellness.
Food as Medicine Program
Food as Medicine consists of four programs that are utilized throughout Reading Hospital, including:
- Food Pantry at McGlinn Cancer Institute
- Food “Farmacy” at Reading Hospital’s Internal Medicine, Family Practice, Endocrinology, and Weight Management Centers
- Women’s Health Center
- Children’s Health Center
“Food as Medicine will not only help to supply patients with access to necessary nutrients, but help them learn to make healthier choices," Sharon Keating, Farm to Table(aux) co-chair, said. "We are grateful to support this critical initiative."
Click here for more information about the event.
About The Friends of Reading Hospital
The Friends of Reading Hospital is dedicated to enhancing community health through the support of diverse and impactful projects. Among these initiatives is the McGlinn Cancer Institute Patient Assistance program, which provides non-medical assistance such as groceries, gas, and utility bills to our cancer patients. The Friends of Reading Hospital demonstrates its commitment to infant care through substantial investments in its Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), featuring leading-edge technology and comprehensive resources to support critically ill newborns. Additionally, The Friends support the Reading Hospital’s innovative Diabetes Education Program. The program has made significant strides in patient care by equipping newly diagnosed individuals with essential self-management techniques. This thorough approach to diabetes management has proven effective, resulting in a notable decrease in hospital readmission rates.
About the Reading Hospital Foundation
Reading Hospital was founded over 150 years ago by a group of concerned physicians and community members who recognized that a growing Berks County needed a hospital to address the health challenges facing the community. These supporters understood that beyond providing comfort and care, Reading Hospital would also be a foundation of the area’s overall growth and development. Reading Hospital Foundation is a non-profit organization that supports Reading Hospital through contributions that make vital projects, programs, and services possible.