Producing Real Results–Patients Benefit from Saint Luke’s and Kanbe’s Markets Collaboration

Brad Manning has been a Saint Luke’s patient for more than 20 years. His health journey has had some significant mile markers, including a successful kidney and pancreas transplant.

After a recent hospitalization, he was evaluating next steps with his primary care provider when he learned about a new opportunity through Saint Luke’s aimed at adding healthier food options to his everyday diet.

Brad was introduced to a voucher program in collaboration with Kanbe’s Markets, a nonprofit organization that provides access to fresh, affordable, and healthy foods to help reduce food insecurity.

Thanks to the vouchers, Brad has benefitted from the fruits and vegetables available at Kanbe’s Markets within local gas stations and corner stores.

“I got grapes, oranges, sweet potatoes, baked potatoes, salads, heads of lettuce, cucumbers, onions, apples, oranges, bell peppers, tomatoes. Everything was in season… and the people at Saint Luke’s and Kanbe’s were excellent,” said Brad.

According to Marsha Weaver, MD, vice president and chief population health officer at Saint Luke’s, about 80% of a person’s health is related to their social drivers of health, with access to healthy foods as one of those key factors. 

“Saint Luke’s is committed to helping reduce barriers to health in our community so every person in the Kansas City area can achieve their full health potential,” said Dr. Weaver.

Max Kaniger, CEO of Kanbe’s Markets, says the collaboration is driven by a targeted approach.

“Working with Saint Luke’s has also allowed us to move more decisively into areas where fresh produce isn’t readily available, reinforcing our efforts to turn Kansas City into a place where every family, regardless of ZIP code, has the resources to make healthy choices,” said Max.

A key element of the program is tracking enrolled patient outcomes.

“By understanding improvements in things like blood pressure, weight, and even mental wellness, we’re able to witness firsthand how fresh produce is not only a source of nourishment but a form of preventive medicine,” said Dr. Weaver.

Patients like Iva Turrentine have enjoyed the personal touch from the voucher program. 

“It curbs your choices, when you have too many,” Iva said. “When I do go to a big grocery store now, I’m more knowledgeable.”

Turrentine says he’s trying new recipes, and even his grandkids are enjoying the benefits of the program. 

“I was blessed to be part of this. I was treated so well, and if I can volunteer or give something back, I will. It’s been a great experience.”

Learn more about Saint Luke's community collaborations and Kanbe's Markets.