What do foods like bok choy, oat milk, dried beans, and leeks all have in common? They are all unsung heroes, packed full of nutrition yet typically overlooked on our distribution line. Why? Perhaps they are a bit unfamiliar to many, but we are working to change that.
The Bloomington-Normal location has been blessed to have Kate Walder join us for a summer internship as she studies Nutrition Sciences at University of Connecticut. One of Kate's main summer tasks has included developing recipes for some of these unique foods (along with others) that only require a few common ingredients. Easy, nutritious, and delicious are the goals. She's been printing recipes and giving samples at our main distributions, all while educating our agencies on the health benefits of the products.
In addition to highlighting the nutrition of the items we distribute, Kate has been visiting some of our agencies in person, writing nutrition-focused blog posts, and researching malnutrition data throughout the areas we serve. Perhaps more importantly, she has begun paving the way to including a bigger nutrition focus on our programs. At Midwest Food Bank, we are always looking for ways to connect the blessings of food with the needs in our community, including specific nutritional needs of those we serve.
Although Kate's internship will soon end, the effects of her efforts will be felt for a long time. We wish her well as she returns to finish her schooling.