Participants are encouraged to keep track of their daily calorie intake by using the food tracking web applications on www.ChooseMyPlate.gov and to follow nutritional guidelines based on United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommended plate portions. The program also focuses on the importance of checking product labels for serving sizes and ingredients. Families are encouraged to swap sugary drinks for water and opt for 100% fruit juices instead of fruit-flavored drinks for their children.
Catholic Charities has also partnered with staff at the USDA to engage participants through live cooking demonstrations. These demonstrations show families how to cook and incorporate new and healthier foods into their meals. In order to make the importance of nutrition a lasting effort, families are also given culturally sensitive recipes to take home, making it easier for participants to improve their nutrition intake.
“It’s great to see families being engaged,” said Belinda Marquez, Director of Family and Community Services at Catholic Charities. “They’re able to ask questions and get involved, which actually helps them better absorb all of the information about nutrition coming at them.
“We have clients who are predisposed to high cholesterol, diabetes, and high blood pressure and with this program they’re able to take steps toward a healthier life.”
Catholic Charities has implemented these individual and group based nutrition presentations through its parenting classes, life skills and home economics classes, and food distribution networks. Additionally, Catholic Charities has conducted outreach at local churches, community based agencies, and collaborative community health fairs. As a result of these efforts, hundreds of low-income families within the San Bernardino and Riverside counties have been provided nutrition education that will benefit parents and their children.
For more information, you can contact Tonna Lee at (909) 388-1239 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..