Health Program Helps Multnomah County Community Health Center Patient Regain Health and Hope Through Fresh Food
For Marjorie Fred, a Portland resident originally from a tropical island, joining a local community-supported agriculture (CSA) health program in 2018 marked a turning point in her life; one that she describes as both healing and transformative. “When I first enrolled in this program, I was really sick,” she recalled. “I wasn’t earning any income, and I’d been struggling with my health for a long time.”
Her doctor, Peter, now retired, introduced her to then-Community Health Worker (CHW) Juliet Bates, now CHW Supervisor, who helped Marjorie enroll in the CSA program. The initiative provides participants with weekly boxes of locally grown vegetables, along with recipes and nutrition education designed to support better health outcomes. “At first, I didn’t even know what some of the vegetables were,” she laughed. "I grew up with tropical fruits like mangoes, but things like kale and collard greens were new to me. Now, I’ve learned so much, and I even have new favorite recipes.”
Over the years, Marjorie’s involvement with the CSA has gone far beyond exploring new foods. She credits the program and her supportive medical team with helping her recover her health, lose weight, and regain mobility. “When I started, my body was covered with psoriasis, and I couldn’t walk up a hill or stairs,” she said. “Now I can, and that’s a big accomplishment for me.”
The program’s impact wasn’t just physical. Marjorie said it eased her financial stress and helped her family save money on groceries. “It’s not only about health benefits,” she explained. “It also helped financially. My sister used to support me, and this program saved her a lot of money.” She also found emotional support through her doctors. “Dr. Peter and Dr. Vivian really listened to me,” she said. “They cared in a way that made me feel seen and supported.”
Marjorie especially enjoys the summer CSA shares, which include her favorite vegetables; summer squash, tomatoes, and cucumbers. But even winter produce, she says, has taught her something new. “Every season is a challenge and an excitement at the same time. Every time they bring a recipe, I get excited to try it.”
Today, Marjorie is passionate about sharing her story so others can benefit from the program as she did. “I want people to know this program is not just about food,” she said. "It’s about life. Food is fuel, just like gas for a car. Without it, you can’t go anywhere.” Standing at the farm where the CSA produce is grown, Marjorie described the experience as uplifting. “When I saw where my food comes from, it made me emotional,” she said. "It was refreshing, like coming full circle.”
For Marjorie, the CSA program is more than a source of vegetables; it’s a source of healing, learning, and community. “I just love it,” she said with a smile. “This program gave me back my health, and my hope.”