Food Is Medicine
At Food & Friends, we believe that proper nutrition is essential for healing and health management. Our team of registered dietitians and professional chefs work together to create meals that are not only delicious but also specifically designed to support your medical needs.
Our services are completely free of charge to those who qualify. We serve individuals living with serious illnesses including cancer, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, and other conditions that affect their ability to shop, cook, or maintain proper nutrition.
Our Programs
Medically Tailored Meals (MTM)
Our flagship program provides home-delivered meals designed by registered dietitians to meet your specific medical and nutritional needs. Each meal is prepared fresh in our commercial kitchen and delivered directly to your door.
- Customized to your health condition and dietary requirements
- Prepared fresh by professional chefs
- Delivered Monday through Saturday
- Available for clients, dependents, and caregivers
- No cost to qualified recipients
Available Meal Plans:
Diabetes-Friendly
Balanced meals designed to help manage blood sugar levels while providing satisfying, delicious nutrition.
Cardiac/Heart-Healthy
Low-sodium, heart-smart meals that support cardiovascular health without sacrificing flavor.
Renal/Kidney-Friendly
Meals that meet strict nutritional requirements for kidney disease management, including controlled potassium, phosphorus, and sodium.
Cancer Support
Nutrient-dense meals designed to support patients through treatment, addressing side effects like appetite loss and taste changes.
HIV/AIDS Nutrition
High-protein, nutrient-rich meals that support immune function and help manage medication side effects.
General Wellness
Balanced, nutritious meals for clients who need nutritional support but don't have specific dietary restrictions.
Medically Tailored Groceries (MTG)
For clients who can prepare their own meals, we provide weekly grocery packages containing nutritious ingredients selected by our dietitians. This program offers flexibility for clients who prefer to cook while still receiving nutritional support.
- Weekly grocery deliveries
- Ingredients selected by registered dietitians
- Recipe suggestions included
- Accommodates dietary restrictions
Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT)
Our registered dietitians provide personalized one-on-one nutrition counseling to help you understand your nutritional needs and manage your condition through diet.
- Individual consultations with registered dietitians
- Personalized nutrition plans
- Ongoing support and education
- Coordination with your healthcare team
- Available in-person or by phone
How to Receive Services
1
Apply or Get Referred
Contact us directly or have your healthcare provider refer you. Applications can be submitted by individuals, family members, or healthcare professionals.
2
Assessment
Our team will conduct a brief assessment to understand your medical condition, dietary needs, and living situation to determine eligibility.
3
Start Receiving Meals
Once approved, you'll begin receiving medically tailored meals delivered to your home. Our dietitians will work with you to ensure your meals meet your needs.
Qualifying Conditions
We serve individuals living with serious illnesses that limit their ability to provide nourishment for themselves, including:
- Cancer (all types)
- HIV/AIDS
- Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2)
- Heart disease / Heart failure
- Chronic kidney disease
- End-stage renal disease
- COPD and respiratory conditions
- Autoimmune disorders
- Other serious illnesses
Services are also available for dependents and caregivers of qualified clients.
Our Service Area
We deliver across 6,172 square miles including:
District of Columbia
Complete coverage of Washington, D.C.
Maryland
Montgomery, Prince George's, Charles, Frederick, Howard, Anne Arundel, and surrounding counties
Virginia
Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William, Alexandria, Falls Church, and surrounding areas