T.O.U.C.H.
OF ROCKLAND COUNTY NY, INC.
FOOD PROGRAM
As a T.O.U.C.H. client you may receive:
Grocery Delivery, Nutritional Counseling, Emergency Aid
The food programs provided by T.O.U.C.H. offer a balanced diet and proper nutrition. Proper nutrition is especially important to those with HIV/AIDS. Sound diet plays a significant role in helping the immune system fight disease. Many of the physical symptoms associated with HIV infections can be minimized through appropriate nourishment. Moreover, proper diet can alleviate some side effects of medical treatments. Good nutrition means eating foods that contain the minerals, vitamins and protein needed to increase strength provide energy, repair damage caused by disease or treatments. It means eating enough calories to maintain a healthy body weight.
T.O.U.C.H. clients may take advantage of weekly grocery. They may access the T.O.U.C.H. Food Pantry, which stores non-perishable food items. In addition, clients can be relieved of the burden and expense of shopping. Therefore, they are able to conserve energy and reserve funds to pay rent and utility bills. The grocery delivery program supplies non-perishable items that cover the basic food groups. In addition to these programs, clients may obtain referrals for nutritional counseling from T.O.U.C.H. Some people afflicted with more than one problem can find it difficult to know what to eat.
GROCERY DELIVERY:
T.O.U.C.H. volunteers supply the basics of a nutritional diet by delivering non-perishable food items to clients' homes. A generous amount of groceries is provided every week, based on caloric and other nutritional needs. Participants are expected to complete the cycle by purchasing meat, poultry, vegetables and fresh fruit on there own to maintain a fresh supply. Grocery delivery can be tailored to specific requirements such as food allergies and the physical health of the person with HIV/AIDS.
EMERGENCY FUND:
T.O.U.C.H. has established a limited fund from donations providing the following assistance:
- Rent supplement for four months to one individual or family.
- Medications, which may not be reimbursable through Medicaid or Medicare, and/or other medications needed in emergency situations.
Purchase of perishable foods (vegetables, milk, meat, and fruit) due to food stamp problems or other cash shortages.