Perceptions, Satisfaction, and Experience of Low-Income, Rural Patients who Participated in a Pilot Farm to Clinic (F2C) Program Utilizing Local, Donated Produce

Abstract

Rural, low-income households are more likely to experience food insecurity, poor diet quality, and related chronic diseases. This study examined the perceptions, satisfaction and experience of rural, low-income patients who participated in the Farm to Clinic program supplied by local farm produce donations, coupled with recipes through a community clinic. Participating patients received weekly food bundles for 8 weeks and completed surveys. Results demonstrated patients were highly satisfied and used nearly all produce donated. Produce familiarity and recipe use were associated with utilizing produce and interest receiving specific produce again. Findings suggest the F2C model is both feasible and acceptable.