Operation Food Search (OFS) just scored a $500,000 grant from the Berges Family Foundation. This money will go towards creating a new teaching kitchen as part of their Healthy Food, Healthy Community project.
The kitchen will have eight stations where people can learn to cook alongside a chef. They’ll pick up skills to whip up simple, healthy meals that don’t break the bank. This initiative aims to boost nutrition education and reinforce long-term food security, according to OFS.
Kristen Wild, the president and CEO of OFS, shared her excitement: “We are grateful to the Berges Family Foundation for making this new space possible. The teaching kitchen has become a beloved area for learning how to prepare nutritious meals. It builds confidence and connections while helping families across the region.”
In addition, OFS recently launched its MetroMarket in Illinois, starting on September 12, in collaboration with the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Food, Agriculture, Nutrition Innovation Center in East St. Louis. This partnership means that the MetroMarket will return to the center every Friday as part of their rolling farmers markets.
Recent statistics show that nearly 1 in 10 Americans struggle with food insecurity. Programs like OFS are vital for bridging that gap, providing not just food, but essential cooking skills that ensure healthier eating habits. As communities come together through these initiatives, the impact is felt far beyond the kitchen.
For more on food insecurity and resources, you can visit Feeding America.
