“FOOD FOR THOUGHT”

Culinary Therapy Program

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Regardless of socioeconomic status, race, or ethnicity, every human being has an enduring connection to food. However, many young individuals lack the privilege of growing up in an environment that fosters healthy eating habits or provides access to information that highlights the advantages of making prudent dietary choices. The primary root cause of this disparity lies in the limited access to education and resources experienced by generations of low-income families, which have been historically and statistically at higher risk of obesity, adverse health outcomes, and dysregulated moods.

 

Food for Thought is an innovative “Farm to City to Table” therapeutic experience designed specifically for young adults. This program seamlessly integrates culinary expertise with emotional well-being, fostering community-supported agricultural practices, culinary experience, and the development of related skills and business acumen.

 

An example of this program's versatility can be seen in our partnership with Avenues for Justice (NYC) where we are hosting a 7-week "Food for Thought” cooking workshop, offering a unique and therapeutic experience tailored to young adults, blending culinary skills with emotional well-being. Led by clinically licensed social worker Judy Rosch who is bringing together her experience and passion for cooking, the program will foster creativity and mindfulness allowing Participants to express themselves while learning to prepare nutritious meals. Through the art of cooking, Participants will build confidence, develop a sense of community, and learn valuable life skills while exploring ways to manage and balance their emotions. The act of preparing food becomes a powerful outlet for self-discovery and stress relief, making it an effective form of therapy that nourishes both the body, the mind and the soul. In addition to the workshop, weekly individual counseling is offered for every Participant. 

 

By providing young at-risk communities access to culinary therapy, inclusive of nutritional education, and culinary skills, program participants will experience every step of the ‘farm to city to table’ process with the aim for participants to gain a greater sense of achievement and confidence as well as build skills applicable to enter a robust workforce. In addition, individual and group counseling greatly benefits participants while they are in an open, healthy and safe mindset.