Beginning May 1, 2009, MANNA (Metropolitan Area Neighborhood Nutrition Alliance) will prepare and deliver delicious and nutritious “family style” meals for the residential care programs of Calcutta House – a non-profit organization serving men and women living with AIDS in Philadelphia and the Delaware Valley region. The 27 residents of Independence Place and Serenity House will receive three meals a day from MANNA.

“It makes sense, both in times of economic trouble and in times of prosperity, for organizations to remain focused on their expertise,” said Matt Teter, Executive Director, Calcutta House. “This collaboration allows Calcutta House to direct its energy and resources to the development of new housing opportunities for people living with AIDS with the comfort of knowing meals will be provided to residents by one of the leading nutritional services agencies in the country, MANNA.” 
 
MANNA’s registered dietitians have developed a standard HIV/heart-healthy menu and will provide additional diet modifications for some residents. MANNA nutritionists will also present occasional nutrition classes for the residents. MANNA chefs will train Calcutta House staff on the proper plating of the meals to insure optimal “family style” experience.  

“MANNA’s services are focused on improving health,” said Richard Keaveney, MANNA Chief Executive Officer. “Our registered dietitians know the power of food as medicine, and are experts at developing delicious, varied menus that provide essential nutrients for those living with AIDS. As we approach our 20th year of service, we continue our commitment to help people living with AIDS eat well, keep a good body weight and fight infection.” 
 
ABOUT CALCUTTA HOUSE
Calcutta House exists to provide housing and other highly supportive services for people living with AIDS in Philadelphia and the Delaware Valley region. This mission is based on the premise that housing is the foundation for the most effective and compassionate treatment, management, and prevention of the disease. Customized support services, responsive to the individual, are delivered with the conviction that self-empowerment will advance attainable goals enabling a resident to realize his/her full potential while adhering to treatment and care plans. Visit www.calcuttahouse.org for more information.
 
ABOUT MANNA
Especially for people at acute nutritional risk due to life-threatening illness, MANNA prepares and delivers delicious nourishing meals, and counsel, empowering those individuals to battle their illness and improve their quality of life. MANNA continues its commitment to serving people with HIV/AIDS, as well as cancer, diabetes, renal disease and other life-threatening illnesses, free of charge. Visit www.mannapa.org for more information.