X-Post -Bariatric Supply Pantry - how to get started

For several years, I have had this vision of starting a food pantry-style outreach center with bariatric supplies, i.e., protein powder, vitamins, blender bottles, etc., but I just don't know how to get started.

Even now, I  am finding myself in need of this type of service, as many who have had surgery are falling on hard times, including me,  and may be hard-pressed to afford the things we need to stay healthy.

My initial research for this at least in my state, says that having a medically trained person there  would not be necessary, and while it is a specialty service, the items would need to be things that anybody can use, whether they have bariatric surgery or not.

Anybody with Ideas?

Maybe you could contact some of the suppliers and get donations and perhaps create the service in conjunction with a hospital social worker in a bariatric center? It's a great idea!

Nerak

That's exactly what I'm thinking...except the  "in conjunction" part. 

That would lead to promoting the bariatric program of that particular hospital, and providing only the things that "their" patients need.   I want to be available to any bariatric patient with any surgery from anywhere, who might be having difficulty getting what they need to stay healthy.

I'm thinking of a setup similar to a regular food bank..only bariatric foods and other supplies..like blender bottles, pill minders for vites and other stuff would be available.

One problem with the vites...they would have to be given out in unopened bottles, otherwise I would be dispensing them, and nobody in my state can do that except a Registered Pharmacist.

Also, there would have to be something in place...the social worker perhaps, that would ensure that people receiving the vites and protein powder truly lack the resources to buy the products..and we're not just getting a lot of people who want freebies.

Love your entrepreneurship and go get em attitude!  I don't know how you will do this but with your great attitude, I believe you WILL do this and what a great thing!  

God bless ya.

Just a thought but perhaps you can find a pharmacist who has had WLS who could oversee your program? Not attached to any hospital or bariatric group but who would be willing to give back? 

Have you talked to Food Banks for info on how to go about setting one up?

Good luck and keep us posted.  How interesting and creative.