Discover the Heart of Soul Food: A Journey Through Flavorful Learning

Jasmine Sheffield was initially doubtful when she heard about using Greek yogurt in dumplings. However, those doubts disappeared after tasting her chicken a la king with cheddar drop dumplings at Smart Soul Food. This initiative aims to teach residents in Richmond’s 6th District about cooking and healthy eating.

“It was amazing,” Jasmine shares. As a teacher from the North Side, she attended classes both with her students at Woodville Elementary and alongside her grandmother.

Smart Soul Food started in January and is part of a city contract. It offers cooking tips, recipes, and take-home ingredients in multiweek sessions. Managed by UGK Community First, a nonprofit established in 2020, the program addresses food insecurity by providing educational resources for families and seniors.

The program enjoys support from several partners, including VCU Health, particularly its dieticians from the School of Nursing and the Community Health program, as well as Shalom Farms. UGK Director Micheal Sparks emphasizes that collaboration with VCU has been crucial for their success.

Looking ahead, Sparks hopes for the program to expand. “We want consistent results,” he explains. It’s not just about providing nutritious food, but also teaching families how to prepare it.

Since its launch, Smart Soul Food has served over 200 families and seniors, with plans to double that number this fall. Sparks envisions a citywide reach by the end of the year.

Chef Steve Glenn, the culinary director and a “Hell’s Kitchen” finalist, focuses on creating recipes that are easy to prepare and nutritious. He believes in cooking from scratch to avoid excess sodium and sugar. “For seniors, we develop low-carb and low-sodium recipes to help with diabetes and hypertension,” he adds.

The addition of Greek yogurt in the dumplings not only boosts protein but also keeps them fluffy, transforming a classic dish into a healthier option.

For Jasmine, these classes have been a game-changer. “I learned new snacks and meals. I’d definitely attend again; I looked forward to it each week.”

Programs like Smart Soul Food are increasingly important. A recent survey shows that nearly 30% of Americans report feeling overwhelmed by meal planning, highlighting the need for such hands-on cooking education. Initiatives that focus on practical cooking skills can empower communities in making healthier food choices.

As the demand for nutritious meal planning grows, local programs like this play a vital role in bridging the gap between food insecurity and healthy living. By equipping families with cooking skills, they not only foster better nutrition but also create connections within the community.

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Giving Back,nonprofits,The Sunday Story,nutrition,UGK,UGK Community First,cooking,community health,VCU Health,Shalom Farms,Smart Soul Food,Joan Tupponce