Community Partner: CAIN
CAIN is much more than a food pantry, but the cornerstone for how to best care for the most vulnerable in society. United by a deep commitment to justice, equity, and community care, all those who seek refuge here find that service is not required but inspired by selfless acts of giving. Founded to address hunger and poverty in Cincinnati’s Northside neighborhood, CAIN operates with the belief that every person has the right to live with dignity and abundance. “We affirm food sovereignty as a fundamental human right, ensuring access to nutritious and culturally relevant food through programs like our Rainbow Choice Food Pantry and community meals at Phil’s Place. Grounded in the lived experiences of our neighbors, we fight to end poverty by centering and empowering those most impacted.”
Driven by collective partnerships, advancing justice, embracing diversity, and uplifting marginalized voices, CAIN reached out to UC College of Medicine in spring of 2024 to start their and Northside’s first clinic. Almost a year out, our partnership has blossomed into sustainable consistent care and primary care follow-up in this area. Hand in hand, CAIN and UCCOM foster a welcoming, inclusive community where every individual can seek good health and well-being. Fundamentally, these tenets serve as paramount vital forces for resilience and longevity. Together, we are building a more just, compassionate, and connected Northside—where everyone belongs and no one is left behind.
About Katherine
Born and raised in Dayton, OH, I attend the University of Dayton before heading to Cincinnati for medical school. My interests within medicine are broad, from integrative medicine to emergency medicine to medical technology, but I’ve always been drawn to the intersection of medicine and community—how where we live, work, move, and connect with others shapes our health. Participating in the Service and Advocacy elective is a meaningful opportunity for me to connect with my community and hopefully make a lasting positive impact on the health of those involved with CAIN in Northside, Cincinnati. I’m grateful for the chance to learn from community leaders and partner organizations during this elective and look forward to carrying those lessons forward into whatever path I take next.