OhioHealth Grady Memorial Hospital has introduced Parker’s Pantry, a new initiative aimed at supporting hospital associates. The pantry provides free access to snacks, hygiene products, and household staples for any team member in need.
Michelle Sheppard, a certified community health worker and case manager extender at OhioHealth Grady Memorial Hospital and OhioHealth Dublin Methodist Hospital, conceived the idea. She realized that some associates could benefit from similar support while collecting food donations for a local pantry.
“While collecting food donations at Grady Memorial for a local pantry, I realized that some of our very own associates, my fellow coworkers, could benefit from similar support,” said Sheppard. “That’s when the idea for an onsite pantry came to life.”
Sheppard collaborated with Tammi Wolfe, MS, BSN, RN, senior consultant provider and associate well-being at OhioHealth Grady Memorial Hospital and OhioHealth Dublin Methodist Hospital. Together they presented the concept to the Well-Being team at Grady Memorial.
“It was with overwhelming support that the team wanted to pursue the concept,” said Wolfe. “We took the idea to our executive leadership team, and they approved and embraced the concept.”
Located on the hospital’s third floor inside what was formerly known as the Parker Medical Library, Parker’s Pantry offers easy access during work hours. Donations from hospital associates keep it stocked throughout the year.
“We understand that food insecurity and tight budgets affect more people than we may realize. Our goal is to reduce stigma, provide support, and strengthen our hospital family,” said Wolfe. “This isn’t just about food; it’s about dignity, trust, and caring for one another.”
Parker’s Pantry is part of a broader effort by Grady Memorial to enhance employee health physically, emotionally, and mentally. The OhioHealth Well-Being team is considering expanding similar programs across other hospitals in their system.
“Giving to others fills the buckets of so many of our associates,” said Sheppard. “The act of kindness and doing something good for others strengthens one’s own personal well-being and has lasting benefits.”
Sheppard and Wolfe shared insights about Parker's Pantry with Spectrum News in an interview available online.