b'DAYTODAYPractical help with the operations and ministry of your organization FULL PLATEBarbara StreeterSupporting Guest HealthProviding care through nutritional educationI have been in mission work for almost 30 years.of removing just one energy drink from their dayIn that time, I have seen the health of ouror making their own snacks instead of buying guests change immensely with rises in obesity,from a convenience store. Bring samples for them diabetes, and heart disease. While studying tosuch as homemade granola, infused waters, and develop a culinary class for our program individu- even yogurt-based ice cream bars that cost less als, I found that whilethan a dollar to make. some health disparitiesBuild partnerships to help address healthy stem from unavoidablelifestyles. Talk to local colleges with nutrition issues, lifestyle anddepartments. They are passionate about educat-behaviors contribute asing the public. They may not be available to do well. Individual factorsa long-term class but would love to come speak like tobacco use, physi- and share specific resources with you. Your local cal activity levels, andhealth department is another organization always diet play a role. willing to help educate with useful documents. One of our mostRescue Ministries of Mid-Michigan has attended Life Skillsrecently opened an extended ministry called classes is our nutritionHigher Purpose. Higher Purpose exists to class. For nearly 20educate, empower, and assist individuals and years we have beenfamilies through Success and Empowerment blessed with a nutri- Hour classes, career fairs, case management, and tionist from Michiganneighborhood renewal efforts. This fall, we are State University Extension coming to our facili- launching a four-week community nutrition class ties to conduct a six-week course. They addressdesigned to equip participants with the skills to the ability to produce healthy, cost-effectiveprepare meals that are affordable, healthy, and meals and snacks for the low-income, disadvan- time efficient. The classes will also teach families taged people we serve. If your area of the countryhow to make the most of food pantry distribu-Barbara Streeter serves as thedoes not provide this resource, here are some tipstions by creating a nutritious and practical meal culinary director for Rescuefor providing your own.from the contents handed out. Ministries of MidMichigan (R3M)Get to know health concerns. What is the rootI have witnessed guests accept the challenge and has been involved with R3Mcause of health issues? Survey your group for spe- of a cleaner, healthier diet. They have shared testi-for nearly 30 years. For the past several years she has served as acific topics such as bad habits, drinks and snacksmony about what they will do with the money presenter at both district andthey buy, foods they avoid, and their activity levels.they save by making these adjustments. Small, annual Citygate NetworkInform and educate guests to promote health consistent changes lead to big outcomesand conferences. She is passionate about helping other foodserviceier behaviors. Provide nutritional informationeventually can achieve significant transformation professionals by sharing resources,but convince with examples. Discuss the savingsin a persons health, well-being, and daily life. \x03training, and her love of cooking. 50 WWW.CITYGATENETWORK.ORG NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025'