Maternal Food Security
Every expectant mother and newborns need healthy food.
Novant Health is committed to helping all of our patients have a healthy pregnancy and delivery. To do that, our pregnant patients need to eat healthy food. That is why we established the Novant Health Maternal Food Security Program.
Many people in our communities face food insecurity. They do not have access to food that gives them a well-balanced diet. At Novant Health, one of our priorities is to ensure that you and your baby receive the proper nutrition needed to live a healthy life.
What is food insecurity?
It’s not having regular access to affordable food that is healthy.
At Novant Health, we are committed to making sure you have access to proper nutrition for yourself and your baby. Food insecurity during pregnancy is linked to poor health outcomes for mothers and babies.
Poor outcomes for mothers:
- Abnormal weight gain
- Gestational diabetes
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Mental health conditions
- Increased maternal mortality
Poor outcomes for babies:
- Premature birth
- Birth defects
- Low birthweight
- Lack of fetal growth
- Increased risk of chronic diseases
We can help
Eligible patients can participate in our Maternal Food Security Program. This program ensures you receive healthy, convenient food during your pregnancy and for 12 weeks after your baby is born. A trained community health worker will also work with you throughout your pregnancy.
We Offer:
- Nutrition education
- Diabetes
- Low-sodium, high-protein meals for diabetic and heart healthy patients
- Emotional support
- Connection to community resources
Who is Eligible?
You are eligible if:
- You are currently pregnant or recently delivered your baby
- You have shared your food insecurity with your Novant Health OB/GYN clinic
We want to be your partner
We want to be your partner. Our team is devoted to the health of you and your baby. Your Novant Health team member(s) will walk with you through this journey so that you are not alone. They will listen to your questions, offer advice and work with you one-on-one to ensure you have the food, and potentially other resources that you need.