If you’re diagnosed with cancer, your health should be your main priority.

A cancer diagnosis builds on existing anxieties. Who will take care of the kids? Who will clean the house? Go to the grocery store? Cook dinner?

In the past several months, staff at University of Iowa Health Care Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center have been supporting patients who need help with their next meal. As food insecurity concerns continue to rise, UI Health Care hopes to alleviate some of that need through an ongoing partnership with HACAP, a nonprofit organization committed to enhancing the lives of Iowans.

“A few of our infusion suite nurses started this program because they saw a need among our patients,” says Michelle Altmaier, who leads the program at UI Health Care. “Our patients have a lot to worry about when it comes to their health, and studies show the right diet can help reduce side effects of treatment and possibly tolerate higher doses of medication.”

Nearly 500 boxes of food have been provided to eligible patients since the program began in July with the number of boxes steadily increasing over the last few months.

"Food insecurity is a significant issue for many in our community, and it is especially critical for those undergoing cancer treatment. At HACAP, we are dedicated to ensuring that no one has to choose between their health and their next meal,” says Kim Guardado, Food Reservoir Director at HACAP. "Our partnership with UI Health Care's Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center allows us to provide much-needed support to these patients, helping them focus on their recovery without the added worry of food insecurity."

Community members can support the program by donating or volunteering through HACAP. The nonprofit offers a variety of services to help those in need tackle things like food insecurity, finding affordable housing, energy assistance and more.