GRAND Mental Health Hosts Healthy Food Drive
Now through December 19, GRAND Mental Health is inviting the Tulsa community to help combat both hunger and its toll on mental health. Residents can donate shelf-stable foods at any GRAND clinic, supporting an initiative aimed at reducing the mental and emotional impact of food insecurity.
Many experiencing food insecurity are not always receiving the appropriate nutrients to support mind and body wellbeing. The psychological effects of food insecurity can leave a person with lifelong struggles. Over time, those experiencing food insecurity can lead to post-traumatic stress symptoms, chronic conditions such as asthma and cardiovascular disease, cognitive impairment, anxiety, depression, and social and personal distress.
To combat food insecurity and promote healthy choices for those in need, GRAND Mental Health has initiated a healthy food drive to serve and uplift those experiencing mental health challenges.
“Addressing food insecurity as soon as possible is essential to those struggling with it,” said Shalene Casanova, Nutrition Coach at GRAND Mental Health. “When parents struggle with depression linked to hunger, it can ripple through the whole family. By coming together to support our community—especially during the holidays—and introducing them to healthier choices like low-sodium soups, whole grains, etc., – we can help break this cycle and bring hope to those who need it most.”
Studies have found that adults experiencing food insecurity are significantly more likely to report symptoms of anxiety and depression compared with food‑secure adults. For example, one national survey showed food insecurity was associated with roughly 2.7 times higher odds of anxiety and about 3 times higher odds of depression among U.S. adults.
About 13.9 % of Tulsa County residents are food insecure, meaning they lack reliable access to enough affordable, nutritious food. Child food insecurity is even higher at around 19.8 %—a significant concern for families and parents.
The community is invited to visit any GRAND clinic to donate shelf stable food items, such as canned fruits and vegetables, oats, rice, pasta, high protein canned meat, olive or canola cooking oils, shelf-stable milk, and . A detailed list of healthy shelf-stable food options can be found on our website: Click here to view full list.