Operation Food Search (OFS), a non-profit hunger relief organization, recently expanded its staff for the Fresh Rx “food is medicine” program. Three Fresh Rx care managers were added: Jelena Basara, Ebony Conway and Alyssa Kohne. Olivia Hoelker was hired as a diabetes specialist. All four will be providing support for participants enrolled in the Fresh Rx Nourishing Healthy Starts and Fresh Rx Prescribing Healthy Futures program.
Basara holds a Master of Social Work with a concentration in Core Leadership and Social Change Leadership from the University of Missouri, St. Louis, where she also earned her Certificate in Nonprofit Management and Leadership.
Conway holds a graduate degree in Human Services from Walden University and an undergraduate degree in social work and psychology from the University of Missouri, St. Louis.
Kohne earned her Master of Social Work and Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Missouri in Columbia, MO. She completed her advanced practicum at the Harry S. Truman VA in Columbia, MO, providing education to veterans in the MOVE! program.
Hoelker is a registered dietitian with a degree in Dietetics from the University of Kentucky and a Degree in Economics from Moorpark College.
Through meal kits, case management and connection to a wide range of resources, the Fresh Rx program seeks to eliminate food insecurity for pregnant women and children with diabetes and their families.
“We are fortunate to add such talented staff members to our innovative Fresh Rx program, which continues to grow due to the need to address the intersection of food insecurity and health,” said OFS President and CEO Kristen Wild. “They will help us provide the support and resources to create healthier lives for our participants and their families.”