Food insecurity remains a serious issue for the many underserved Orange County residents living with chronic health conditions. For those who are HIV+ or living with disabilities, the Radiant Health Centers nutrition services and food pantry continue to be a source of healthy, nourishing meals. As food insecurity in the county rises – climbing from 8.5% in 2018 to a projected 13.7% today – access to nutritional programs is more important than ever.
Nourishing the Orange County Community at Our Food Pantry
Radiant Health Centers’ food pantry is an important resource for hundreds of individuals and families throughout Orange County. Along with offering groceries and prepared meals, the pantry provides medically appropriate meals for those with allergies and other dietary needs. And to help maintain a well-balanced diet, eligible patients can also receive dietary supplements, vitamins and nutritional counseling from a registered dietitian.
In 2023, the pantry served over 164 families affected by HIV. Access to consistent, nutritious meals was vital for these community members, and allowed them to focus on their treatment and well-being without the added stress of securing daily meals.
March 2025 is an important time for the food pantry, with changes coming to expand access to this needed service. This month, the eligibility requirements will be updated to remove the disability requirement and increase the income threshold to 200% of the federal poverty level. This change means that more individuals and families will qualify for assistance and gain access to this lifeline.
How You Can Support the Food Pantry
One of the easiest ways to support the food pantry is by purchasing items from the Amazon Wishlist. Donors can contribute high-quality groceries and supplies that support families in all parts of Orange County. Every purchase helps sustain this service and ensures that food remains available for those who need it most.
Recently, our Giving Tuesday global day of giving campaign focused on our food pantry. Donors gave generously – including a donor who matched each contribution – raising funds that will feed families living with HIV over the coming months.
Volunteering at the Food Pantry
The food pantry relies on the hard work of volunteers to ensure that patients receive their supplemental food twice a month. The dedication of people like Charles Eberline, who began supporting Radiant Health Centers in 1996, makes a real difference in the lives of so many across the county. “People are surviving longer, which is great, but that means they need services for longer,” Charles said. If you would like to support social services and care programs in Orange County, please consider volunteering at our food pantry.
Access Nutrition and Social Services in Orange County
At Radiant Health Centers we offer a range of vital social services for patients in Irvine and across Orange County. Contact our team for help accessing our food pantry and nutrition services, as well as our other care programs. Call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment today.
Image Credit – NAR studio/Shutterstock.com
