Started in 2011, Cooking Canes is a student-run program of PHSA that focuses on young adult nutrition. During the academic year, PHSA heads down N.W. 14 Street to Booker T. Washington Senior High School in Overtown every month. This under-served community is considered a “food desert” or a geographical area where residents lack reasonable access to healthy and affordable food options. This lack of access is linked to decreased consumption of fruits and vegetables, which are the cornerstone of a healthy diet.
Working with the teachers, over a dozen students come to these monthly, two-hour cooking sessions. Before they prepare healthy meals, they are provided with the recipes, necessary ingredients and then guidance while cooking. Through the hands-on preparation of nutritious and delicious meals, they also learn about the health benefits of diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and dairy. Ideally, the food nutrition education extends outside the classroom and into their homes as they prepare these foods for their families.
Please stay tuned for the 2018-2019 Cooking Canes dates and times. If you are interested in participating, please email: umiamiphsa@miami.edu.
