Toni’s Kitchen Partners with Zufall Medical to Provide Health and Dental Care Services

Toni’s Kitchen is partnering with Zufall Health to provide onsite monthly health care services and information to Toni’s Kitchen guests during its Choice Pantry grocery service. Zufall Health is a nonprofit community health center that provides health care regardless of income, insurance, or other barriers. They have locations throughout Northern and Central New Jersey.

Nancy Xenakis is a staff member at Toni’s Kitchen who oversees our relationship with Zufall and other community wellness partners. She says the Zufall team, comprised of bilingual (English/Spanish) staff including outreach representatives, nurses and health educators, is offering a range of services to meet TK guests’ needs. These include blood pressure screenings and Covid booster shots and basic health education to guests about seasonal issues like managing high temperatures, sun protection and staying hydrated during the summer. Nancy says that Zufall also offers guests health insurance education and screening. Guests can then make a follow up appointment with Zufall if they wish to continue with the application process. Guests who are interested in establishing their primary care with a medical provider at Zufall receive guidance about that process and scheduling their first appointment.

Toni’s Kitchen also piloted the use of Zufall’s mobile dental van that is available during the summer months. Dental care is one of the most needed services and is one that is largely out of reach for our guests. There was a strong response to the dental van with all appointment slots being filled well in advance. Guests received cleanings, exams, x-rays, fillings and referrals/follow-up for more extensive dentistry services either billed to their insurance or at a reduced cost based on household income and family size. Nancy says that due to its success, the dental van is scheduled again for August and we hopes to schedule it in September as well.

Informational flyers in English and Spanish about the Zufall services are available during the Choice Pantry hours. Nancy says this way guests can plan in advance and get their groceries and also visit Zufall in one visit.

This program is just one of many that Toni’s Kitchen offers to help those in need in our community with support to help them live more independent and healthy lives.