Local Volunteers Provide Nutritious Meals for Cancer Patients

A dedicated group of volunteers is making a significant impact at the Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital Community Cancer Center by providing freshly prepared meals to cancer patients through the Comfort Cuisine Program. Each week, these volunteers prepare nutritious meals aimed at supporting patients undergoing treatment, ensuring that they receive the nourishment they need during a challenging time.

The program allows patients to pick up meals at the Cancer Center in exchange for a small donation. If a patient is unable to afford the donation, it is waived, ensuring that no one is turned away due to financial constraints. This initiative has been running for several years, highlighting the community’s commitment to supporting those affected by cancer.

Volunteers on a Mission

One of the key figures in this program is Darlene “Dee” Mariani, a two-time cancer survivor and a seasoned volunteer. Mariani, who has been part of the Comfort Cuisine Program for two years, now serves as a “captain,” overseeing the operation alongside other volunteers. “I grew up in the restaurant business and learned that nutrition and accessibility to prepared meals is important for recovery,” she explains.

The Comfort Cuisine Program operates with three captains who take turns selecting meals, shopping for ingredients, and supervising the cooking process. This system allows for a variety of dishes while maintaining quality and nutritional standards. Meals are prepared under the guidelines of California ServSafe Food Handlers, ensuring safety and hygiene.

Impact on Patients’ Wellbeing

According to Emily Phillips, RN and Nurse Navigator at the Cancer Center, the program plays a crucial role in the overall wellbeing of cancer patients. “It significantly reduces the burden of food preparation on patients experiencing fatigue and side effects from treatment,” she notes. The convenience of having prepackaged, nutritionist-certified meals allows caregivers to focus on providing emotional support.

Courtney Merrick, a nutritionist at the Cancer Center, emphasizes the unique dietary challenges faced by cancer patients. “Approximately 40% of cancer patients become malnourished during treatment,” she states. The Comfort Cuisine Program aims to combat this issue by providing meals rich in calories and protein, which are essential for maintaining energy levels and strength.

Popular menu items include corn chowder, macaroni and cheese, and Swedish meatballs, with a number of recipes originating from the late Paul Faahs, the program’s previous leader. “We continue to use his recipes, which are favorites among patients,” says Jennifer Dahlgren, who co-manages the program with her husband, Eric Dahlgren.

The meals are prepared in generous portions and packaged in lidded, microwavable containers, making it easy for patients to save leftovers. Patients can access the program simply by asking a staff member or volunteer, and meals are stored in a dedicated freezer, ready for immediate pickup.

For many patients, these meals represent more than just sustenance; they symbolize compassion and community support. “Patients truly appreciate this program, especially those who spend extended periods in treatment,” Phillips adds. The initiative not only helps alleviate the stress of food preparation but also provides comfort to patients living alone or facing financial difficulties.

How to Support the Comfort Cuisine Program

The Comfort Cuisine Program is actively seeking more volunteers and a kitchen space where meals can be prepared. Those interested in contributing can reach out to Darlene “Dee” Mariani at 530-913-7396. Funding for the program comes from the Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital Foundation and the generosity of local supporters, demonstrating the community’s commitment to supporting those in need. Donations can be made at supportsierranevada.org/comfort-cuisine.

Through the Comfort Cuisine Program, local volunteers are not just providing meals; they are serving hope and kindness to cancer patients during one of the most challenging times in their lives.