Finding Free and Affordable Meals for Cancer Patients
Getting diagnosed with cancer can be extremely difficult both emotionally and financially. The costs of treatment, medications, and missed time from work can quickly add up, making it difficult to afford basic necessities like healthy meals.
Fortunately, there are resources available for cancer patients to access free or low-cost nutritious food. Eating well during cancer treatment is essential, as a healthy diet can help patients better respond to treatment, reduce side effects, and improve quality of life.
Understanding the Importance of Nutrition for Cancer Patients
Maintaining good nutrition during cancer treatment is critically important. Cancer and cancer treatments can negatively impact appetite, alter taste buds, cause nausea, and make it difficult to maintain weight.
Eating a diet high in whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can help cancer patients in the following ways:
- Reduce risk of infection
- Improve response to treatment
- Better manage side effects
- Maintain strength and energy levels
- Improve overall wellbeing
Despite the importance of nutrition, many cancer patients find it financially difficult to keep themselves and their families fed. Fortunately there are resources available for free or reduced cost meals.
Finding Free Meal Programs and Services
There are a variety of programs and services that provide free meals specifically for cancer patients and their caregivers. Here are some options to consider checking out:
Local Cancer Centers
Many hospitals, treatment centers, and community cancer support organizations offer free meal programs. These may include access to food pantries, prepared meals, grocery assistance, and dining halls. For example, the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance offers free lunch to patients and caregivers.
Meal Delivery Programs
There are also national charitable organizations that provide free meal delivery to cancer patients. Some options to investigate include:
- CancerCare’s Meal Delivery Program
- The American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery
- Healthy Gourmet at the Cancer Support Community
These programs deliver healthy meals tailored to cancer patients' nutritional needs straight to their doors. Speak to your care team to find out if you qualify for any meal assistance programs.
Food Pantries and Community Kitchens
Local food pantries and community kitchens are additional resources to check out. Though not cancer-specific, many of these community food programs give free groceries and meals to those in need, including ill and disabled community members. Use the Feeding America website or dial 211 to find local options.
Making the Most of Charitable Meal Assistance
Here are some tips to help cancer patients take full advantage of charitable meals and nutrition assistance:
- Ask your cancer care team what resources they recommend or provide
- Contact local cancer support organizations about possible meal programs
- Research national meal delivery programs for eligibility requirements
- Bring someone along to meals to help carry items and provide company
- Pack a cooler with ice packs if you have a long trip home after getting meals
- Focus on finding help with the foods you struggle cooking or shopping for yourself
- Ask a friend or volunteer to help reheat meals if you have trouble standing at the stove
- Request foods you find easy to eat if struggling with chewing, swallowing, or digestion issues
Don't be afraid to ask for help getting or preparing meals during this challenging time. Focus your limited energy on treatment and healing.
Overcoming Potential Barriers to Receiving Free Meals
Despite the availability of charitable meal programs, some cancer patients encounter difficulties accessing services. Being aware of potential barriers and having strategies to overcome them will help you get the nutritional support you need.
Limited Transportation
Some meal distribution sites or pantries may be challenging to get to, especially for patients going through intensive treatment. See if local cancer charities like the American Cancer Society provide transportation assistance through their Road to Recovery program. Or, ask family, friends, neighbors, or volunteers from local religious groups if they can give you a ride.
Not Qualifying Based on Location or Income
Certain free meal programs have specific requirements around location, income thresholds, or cancer status that make some patients ineligible. If you encounter this, try contacting other local community, religious, or nonprofit feeding organizations to explain your situation. Many will make exceptions or provide assistance to those battling serious illness.
Limited Program Capacity
Some meal assistance programs simply don't have the capacity to feed every cancer patient in need. If the program you contact has reached maximum capacity, don’t hesitate to reach out to other organizations for help. Persistence and creativity in finding food assistance can pay off.
Discomfort Asking for Help
Lastly, some people feel uncomfortable asking for and accepting charitable food assistance. But please know there is no shame in getting help to cover an essential need like meals during this challenging life phase. These programs exist specifically to help people like you. Focus on your health, and let others help handle the rest.
Nutritious and Delicious: Eating Well During Cancer Treatment
Accessing charitable meals for cancer patients allows you to focus energy on what matters most—your treatment and recovery. But nourishing one's body well involves more than just accessing food.
It’s also important to work with your medical team to craft a nutritious, balanced diet that provides energy, fights cancer, and keeps you feeling your best. Your providers can connect you with registered dietitians who specialize in oncology nutrition.
Here is a simple overview of what an anti-cancer diet generally looks like:
Emphasize Whole, Plant-Based Foods
Fill at least 2/3 of your plate with a rainbow of anti-inflammatory fruits and vegetables to flood your body with cancer-fighting compounds. Great options include leafy greens, berries, tomatoes, apples, squash, lentils, citrus fruits, and sweet potatoes.
Focus on Lean Proteins
About 1/3 of your plate should contain nourishing proteins to maintain strength and power healing. Go for fatty fish like salmon, plant-based proteins like nuts and beans, eggs, chicken, and turkey.
Consider Dairy in Moderation
Some survivors can tolerate plain yogurt and cheese well, while others find dairy inflammatory. Enjoy sparingly if these foods agree with your gut and don't displace other nourishing options.
Choose Whole Grains
When you include grains or starches in meals, make them whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, oats, or 100% whole wheat pasta and bread to maximize nutrients and satisfaction.
Stay Hydrated
Make a point to stay well hydrated by sipping water, unsweetened iced tea, low-sodium broth, and nut or plant-based milk throughout your day. Set hydration reminders if needed.
Discuss Supplements
Check in with your care team before starting any dietary supplements, as these can sometimes interfere with treatment effectiveness. Some supplements like a basic multivitamin may be recommended.
Incorporating cancer-fighting foods into your meals and being mindful of how different foods make you feel will go a long way in supporting healing. Together with accessing charitable meals when needed, you’ll nourish yourself well for the road ahead.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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