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Federal funding enables Trillium Health to open food pantry and learning kitchen
Federal funding enables Trillium Health to open food pantry and learning kitchen
Trillium Health announced the official opening of its newly renovated food pantry this week, which was redesigned to better serve the needs of Monroe County residents facing food insecurity.
The food pantry, located at 259 Monroe Ave., is now open to the public and includes a learning kitchen in which city residents with certain health conditions can learn how to cook nutritious food.
The expansion was made possible by $6 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds secured by federal officials and distributed by Monroe County and the City of Rochester.
Trillium Health’s food pantry operates under a “grocery store” model, in which individuals can select the food items that best suit their needs. The food pantry is open to anyone in need of food once a month.
In addition, Trillium Health has opened a new learning kitchen to complement its Food Pharmacy program.
Under the farm-to-table program, patients with diabetes, high cholesterol or hypertension are “prescribed” fresh food and are taught how to prepare meals to help improve their health outcomes. Trillium Health operates the program in partnership with Headwater Food Hub and EquiCenter.
“Trillium Health is thrilled to officially open the new food pantry and learning kitchen, which is meeting a significant need in our community and improving access to care,” said Jason Barnecut-Kearns, Trillium Health president and CEO of Trillium Health. “Our goal to ensure that everyone who walks through our doors is connected to the resources they need to thrive – whether it’s food, healthcare, medicine, or other supportive services.”
Trillium Health has already seen a significant increase in the number of households that have been served by its food pantry. In 2024, the food pantry served 3,113 households, which was double the number from the previous year.
Additionally, Trillium Health distributed 1,788 boxes of fresh produce to city residents, and the Food Pharmacy program is currently in its third cohort, with dozens of city residents served. The pilot program will continue into 2026.
ARPA funds also allowed Trillium Health to open two smaller food pantries at its satellite locations – located at 470 West Main St. and 170 Science Parkway.
In addition, Trillium Health hired medical case managers, who assist clients with accessing health care and supportive services at various locations.
[email protected] / (585) 653-4021
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