How The NOCC Delivers Free Meals to Patients with Ovarian Cancer

The National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) is marking 35 years of advocacy, support and community for individuals affected by ovarian cancer. What began as a grassroots effort in Boca Raton, Florida, has grown into a nationwide nonprofit organization serving patients, caregivers and families across the country. While the organization has expanded significantly over the decades, its mission remains the same: to improve quality of life for those navigating ovarian cancer through accessible, patient-centered support.

“We continue that grassroots spirit today” said Ronni Blaisdell, Director of Mission Strategy at the NOCC . “We have boots on the ground across the United States, and we’re always looking for ways to meet patients where they are and provide meaningful, practical support.”

One of the organization’s most impactful initiatives is its free meal delivery program, launched in 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially created to help immunocompromised patients safely access food, the program has since evolved into a long-term solution addressing a critical challenge during cancer treatment: maintaining proper nutrition while managing fatigue, appetite changes and the overall physical toll of care.

According to Communications Director Lauren Ashley German, the program is designed to remove a major burden from patients and their families. “When someone is going through treatment, even everyday tasks like grocery shopping or preparing meals can feel overwhelming,” she said.

How the Program Works and Who Is Eligible

The meal delivery program provides 36 medically tailored meals over the course of six months, aligning with the average length of ovarian cancer treatment. Meals arrive ready to heat and can be refrigerated or frozen, giving patients flexibility to use them as needed.

The program is available to anyone diagnosed with ovarian cancer, regardless of stage, treatment status or financial situation. While it is especially beneficial for those actively undergoing treatment, eligibility extends to individuals at any point in their cancer journey. Patients can apply through the NOCC’s website, and after a verification process, meals are typically delivered within two to six weeks.

Importantly, the program supports not only patients but also caregivers. Meals are provided for the household, helping to ease the shared responsibilities that often come with caregiving. The NOCC partners with Mom's Meals to deliver the meals, and patients can also connect with registered dietitians through the service for personalized nutritional guidance.

“It’s about supporting the whole unit,” Blaisdell said. “Not just the patient, but the caregiver as well.”

Reducing Stress and Expanding Support Nationwide

Available in all 50 states, the program removes both geographic and financial barriers to access. While patients can apply once per year, the structure is designed to provide consistent support throughout a critical treatment window.

Beyond nutrition, the impact is significant. According to NOCC’s 2024 program report, 85% of participants said the meals helped relieve both physical and mental stress while improving access to healthy food. By eliminating the need to plan, shop and cook, the program allows patients to focus more fully on treatment and recovery.

“It’s about removing burdens,” German said. “When we talk about quality of life, that’s really what it comes down to—what can we take off someone’s plate during a difficult time.”

Since its launch, the program has delivered more than 52,000 meals to approximately 2,000 individuals. However, with nearly 19,000 new ovarian cancer diagnoses each year in the United States, NOCC leaders emphasize that there is still room to grow.

“We’re only scratching the surface,” German said. “Our goal is to serve as many people as possible.”

The meal delivery program is just one part of NOCC’s broader support system, which also includes financial assistance, support groups, educational resources and wellness programs. Many of these services are now available both in person and virtually, ensuring that patients can access support regardless of location or mobility.

As Blaisdell emphasized, the goal is simple: to ease the burden of ovarian cancer in as many ways as possible. “Whether it’s through meals, support groups or education, it all comes back to helping people feel supported and improving their quality of life,” she said.

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