“We are thrilled to announce this milestone to our community. This number represents hundreds of volunteers, donors, partners, and businesses standing up and saying, “Let's face cancer with nutrition.” For this, we thank you. The last three years have demonstrated that this standard of care is possible for cancer. That it positively impacts health outcomes. Also, that our work is just beginning to address this growing need.” said Christine B. Foundation executive director Matt Dexter.

Patients share their unique needs and preferences, selecting from various options, including produce, grains, proteins, and liquid formulas. This tailored package is made available on-site at partnering treatment centers and for home delivery up to once a week. The expenses of this robust supply chain are 100% covered by donations and volunteers. Notably, in 2023, CBF received a gift of $120,000 from the Hannaford Supermarket Community Relations and Foundation to advance this cancer care.

“Increasing access to healthy, fresh food is critical to the wellness of all individuals in our community – and that is especially true for those impacted by cancer,” said Sherri Stevens, Community Relations Manager at Hannaford Supermarkets. “We are tremendously honored to support the Christine B. Foundation in this work and congratulate them on this incredible milestone as they continue to provide nourishing, nutritionally-dense meals to Maine residents battling cancer.”

As 2024 begins, Maine is faced with rising cancer incidence and a waitlist for this CBF service. The CBF board of directors recognizes this strain on families, health systems, and communities. In an unprecedented move, the leadership amended their bylaws, expressing their unwavering commitment to this integrated cancer care and pledging a new mission statement:

CBF supports those facing cancer by extending access to healthy food, nutritional information, and community connections essential to their strength and comfort.

For more information on the program or how to receive support, please visit www.chrisbfund.org/nutrition. If you have any questions, contact Matt Dexter, CBF Executive Director, at (207) 573-9026 or by emailing nutrition@chrisbfund.org.

The Christine B. Foundation (CBF) is a non-profit service provider based in Bangor, ME, founded by Matt Dexter, son of Christine B. Dexter. She passed away from stomach cancer in 2008. Their mission is to support those facing cancer by extending access to healthy food, nutritional information, and community connections essential to their strength and comfort.

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