Local Volunteers Deliver Hope Through Comfort Cuisine Meals

A dedicated group of volunteers is making a meaningful impact in the lives of cancer patients through the Comfort Cuisine Program at the Dignity Health Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital Community Cancer Center. Each week, these individuals prepare nutritious meals for patients undergoing treatment, ensuring that they receive not just sustenance, but also support during a challenging time.

Volunteers Serve with Purpose

The premise of the Comfort Cuisine Program is straightforward: volunteers prepare healthy meals that patients can pick up at the Cancer Center for a small donation. If a patient is unable to contribute financially, the donation is waived. This initiative has been running for years, driven by the passion of volunteers like Darlene “Dee” Mariani. A two-time cancer survivor, Mariani emphasizes the importance of nutrition in recovery. “I grew up in the restaurant business and learned that access to prepared meals is crucial for healing,” she states.

Mariani, who has been involved with the program for the past two years and serves as a “captain,” will soon take over leadership from Eric and Jennifer Dahlgren. The Dahlgrens have redesigned the program following the passing of former leader Paul Faahs. Under the new structure, three captains rotate responsibilities, including meal planning, shopping, cooking, and delivery.

Impact on Patient Wellbeing

The program prepares approximately 75 meals each month and is certified as California ServSafe Food Handlers. Emily Phillips, RN and Nurse Navigator at the Cancer Center, highlights the program’s significance: “It contributes significantly to the overall wellbeing and recovery of cancer patients by providing convenient, prepackaged, and nutritionist-certified meals.” This service alleviates the burden of food preparation for patients who may experience fatigue and side effects from treatment, allowing their caregivers to focus on providing emotional support.

Courtney Merrick, a nutritionist at the Cancer Center, notes that cancer patients often face unique challenges when it comes to nutrition. “About 40% of cancer patients become malnourished during treatment,” she explains. “This program ensures that patients have access to nutrient-rich meals that can help maintain their energy and strength.”

Meals like corn chowder, macaroni and cheese, Swedish meatballs, and cheesy chicken parmesan meatballs are favorites among patients. Jennifer Dahlgren shared that while some new recipes have been introduced, many of the original dishes created by Paul Faahs remain popular.

Prepared meals are packaged in lidded, microwavable, and recyclable containers, making it easy for patients to store leftovers. Patients at the SNMH Community Cancer Center can access these meals by simply asking a staff member or volunteer. Meals are stored in a dedicated freezer, ready for patients to take home the same day.

The warmth of these meals represents more than just nutrition; they embody human kindness. Phillips observes, “Patients truly appreciate this program, especially those undergoing extended treatment. It provides real stress relief, particularly for those who live alone or have limited funds.”

How to Get Involved

The Comfort Cuisine Program is actively seeking more volunteers, as well as a kitchen space for meal preparation. Those interested in helping can contact Darlene Mariani at 530-913-7396. Funding for the program is supported by the Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital Foundation and local donors. Contributions can also be made through their website at supportsierranevada.org/comfort-cuisine.

As the Comfort Cuisine Program continues to grow, its commitment to nurturing patients through nutritious meals remains steadfast, showcasing the power of community and compassion in healthcare.