Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital Tackles Food Insecurity On East End

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GREENPORT, NY — Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital has taken great strides to tackle food insecurity in the community.

SBELIH was recently recognized by Food Rescue US – North Fork for its growing partnership in redirecting surplus prepared meals to organizations serving individuals and families facing food insecurity across the East End.

During a recent visit to the hospital, Anne Howard and Stephanie McEvily, site co-directors of Food Rescue US – North Fork, presented hospital leadership with a plaque recognizing SBELIH’s ongoing commitment to donating excess prepared food from the hospital’s Greenhouse Grill.

The collaboration helps ensure that high-quality prepared meals that might otherwise go unused are safely delivered to community organizations in need, representatives said.

The program continues to grow each year. In 2025, a total of 1,961 pounds of food were rescued and redistributed, more than doubling the 937 pounds recovered in 2024, representatives added.

"This partnership reflects our commitment to caring for our community in every way we can," said Paul Connor, chief administrative officer, Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital. "By working with Food Rescue US – North Fork, we are able to reduce food waste while helping ensure that nutritious meals reach neighbors who need them."

The effort is made possible through the coordination of hospital staff and dedicated volunteers, officials said.

At SBELIH, Marlene Parrish from the hospital’s Greenhouse Grill works closely with Food Rescue volunteer Holly Cato, helping safely package prepared meals for pickup and distribution.

The program is supported by Robert Galinski, director of nutritional services, whose team helps ensure food safety and consistency throughout the process.

"This partnership is a wonderful example of how local organizations can work together to strengthen our community," said Linda Sweeney, vice president, Foundation & External Affairs. "We are grateful to Food Rescue US and the volunteers who make it possible to share these meals with organizations that serve those in need across the North Fork."