Building Bridges
Over the years, I have been involved in planning and teaching cooking classes at the Building Bridges Camp at Proyecto Desarollo Humano in Peñitas, Texas. I believe that healthy living starts at a young age, so I really enjoy working with the kids at this camp!
Peñitas, Texas is a community in the Rio Grande Valley. Founded by Missionary Sisters, this non-profit works to unite Hispanic immigrants living below the poverty line. One of those efforts is their organic community garden that the residents grow and harvest. In order to put it to use, I attempt to incorporate plants that they have in abundance in the garden such as spinach: one of their most prominent crops.
It is also super important to keep in mind the cost of the ingredients that I buy and use. Not only do I want these recipes to be replicated by the children, but what I hope they learn is that healthy recipes are accessible and simple!
Some of the recipes I have made include a spinach/banana/berry smoothie, red pepper bean quesadillas, fruit kababs, and even waffles to show them that all foods fit into a healthy diet. When not working with food, I also teach the kids about the importance of eating from all food groups or simply drinking enough water!
