How Good Shepherd Food Bank
Implements HER Nutrition Guidelines
Ensuring that our neighbors have equitable access to nutritious and culturally relevant food is at the heart of Good Shepherd Food Bank of Maine’s mission. In pursuit of this goal, the Food Bank has integrated HER (Healthy Eating Research) Nutrition Guidelines into our food purchasing, sourcing, and distribution processes. These evidence-based recommendations, developed by the Rudd Center for Food Policy and Health at the University of Connecticut, help us focus on providing nutrient-rich foods that promote health and well-being.
What are the HER Nutrition Guidelines?
Our work across Maine has shown us that addressing food insecurity isn’t just about quantity but quality. Nutritional security is tied closely to the health of our communities. Diet-related conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity are significant challenges in Maine. By prioritizing nutritional security, we can reduce the long-term healthcare burden and improve the quality of life for our neighbors.
Good Shepherd Food Bank’s Commitment to Healthy Food Access
We recognize the health of our communities is deeply connected to the quality of food we provide to the network of partner agencies. By adopting the Healthy Eating Research Nutrition Guidelines (HER), we are committed to ensuring that the food we distribute supports individuals, families, and older Mainers’ overall health and well-being.
Here is how we’re putting these guidelines into action:
- Guided Food Purchasing and Sourcing
We use the HER Nutrition Guidelines as a framework to make informed decisions about the foods we purchase and source. This means prioritizing procuring nutrient-dense foods such as fresh produce, whole grains, and lean proteins. Our partnerships with local farms and food producers through the Mainers Feeding Mainers program allow us to source a significant portion of these healthy foods from within the state, ensuring that our offerings are both nutritious and locally grown. - Nutrient-Rich Food Distribution
With over 600 partners across Maine, Good Shepherd Food Bank plays a crucial role in ensuring that nutritious foods reach every corner of our state. By adhering to the HER Nutrition Guidelines, we can confidently distribute foods that contribute to healthier diets. Whether through our Healthcare programming, where healthcare providers screen for food insecurity in their patients’ appointments, or through the traditional food pantry network, the Food Bank is making sure the food provided aligns with the latest nutrition science. - Supporting the Partner Agency Network
Through training, resources, and ongoing communication, the Food Bank is helping the network of food pantries, meal sites, and other hunger relief organizations understand the importance of these guidelines and how to apply them in their food distributions. By working together, we can amplify the impact of our efforts and ensure that more Mainers have equitable access to the nutritious and culturally relevant foods they need to lead healthy lives. - Continuous Improvement and Evaluation
As the Food Bank implements these recommendations and guidelines, we regularly assess and refine our strategies to ensure we’re meeting the needs of Maine’s communities. Our assessment includes gathering feedback from our partners, monitoring the nutritional quality of the foods we distribute, and making the adjustments necessary to better support our neighbors’ health.
Good Shepherd Food Bank of Maine is taking a proactive approach to improving the health of Maine’s communities. By prioritizing the procurement of fresh produce, whole grains, and other nutrient-dense foods, we reinforce the understanding that the food we provide supports the health of Mainers. We’re not just fighting hunger; we’re working to eliminate it in a way that supports long-term health and well-being. Join us in promoting nutritional security and building a healthier Maine for future generations.
FMI: https://uconnruddcenter.org/her-guidelines/
Download the Poster: https://gsfb.canto.com/s/V3H5D
