Nourishing Hope: How Food is Medicine Supports Emmeral and Her Family

Participants: Emmeral Waldo (Mother), Warren Waldo (son, 11), Cameron Waldo (son, 6)

For Emmeral Waldo, the Food Is Medicine program has been a meaningful source of support for her family. Referred by her primary care physician, Dr. Santiago Macias, MD, Emerald enrolled in the program after struggling to manage the high cost of food for her six-year-old son, Cameron, who lives with numerous severe food allergies.

"My younger son has a ton of allergies. He is basically allergic to everything. So, finding healthy foods for him is extremely difficult. This program has helped us bridge that gap."

By receiving fresh fruits and vegetables through the program, Emmeral can redirect precious grocery dollars toward the specialty foods that Cameron needs, helping make healthy eating more attainable for the entire family.

“Fruits and veggies are very expensive at the store, and by saving that money, I can buy my son his special muffins that he loves.”

Over the past several months, weekly food pickups and family-friendly cooking classes have introduced Cameron and his older brother, Warren, to new foods and experiences while encouraging healthier habits at home. With easier access to fresh produce and opportunities to learn together, the program has not only eased financial strain but also helped nourish a healthier future for this Rio Rancho family.