Cooking Matters
Story Behind the Curve
Cookign Matters is a new program started in 2024 led by the health education staff at the health department. There is interest in nutrition education as expressed in the
community health assessment. For 30 years, Cooking Matters was a program run by Share Our Strength, a nonprofit working to solve problems of hunger and poverty in the United States and around the world.
The evidence-based curriculum offers a variety of topics that can be tailored to different populations, e.g. quick and healthy snack ideas, creating or selecting substitutes for sugary beverages, meals on a limited budget, etc. Cooking Matters is interactive and allows the presenter to create or prepare foods in front of the participants, allows them the opportunity to taste the foods, and encourages input from the participants.
More outreach is being done to promote the program and build community relationships.
Partners
Lee County Health Department began the Cooking Matters program at the Enrichment Center, a local county-run senior center that serves as a focal point in the community where older adults meet to participate in activities and enhance their involvement in the community. The Center was developed for the purpose of providing an activity center for older adults who can function independently. It is a visible reminder in Lee County of the value and contributions of our older citizens.
Senior Services is a focal point in the community where patrons access services and engage in activities. Programming has an emphasis on community betterment through involvement. We offer a variety of innovative programs: educational, entertainment, fitness, North Carolina Senior Games and SilverArts, health and wellness. Virtual programs are also available.
Who We Serve
Lee County residents of all ages.
How We Impact
Lee County residents are making healthier food choices and have an increased knowledge about food choices. The surveys below reflect the feedback from the participants from the first class (February 2024) at the Lee County Enrichment Center (senior center).
Surveys_CookingMatters_EnrichmentCenter_FEB2024_1709929183.pdf
Status of Program
After the completion of the first Cooking Matters program at the LC Enrichment Center (senior center), there has been strong demand for more classes which is in the planning. Surveys received from participants were all positive.
Measures
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Trend
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