Long Island Launches 'About Eating NY' Online Initiative to Promote Healthy Eating on a Budget

Long Island Cares has partnered with the Rochester Institute of Technology and the Wegmans School of Health and Nutrition to launch an exciting new initiative called 'About Eating NY.' This program is designed to address food insecurity by educating individuals on making the most of their food budgets. Through strategic collaboration, the initiative aims to empower the community with the knowledge to build balanced and healthy meals. 'About Eating NY' marks the beginning of a statewide effort to improve nutrition education across ten regions.

The collaboration between Long Island Cares and RIT/Wegmans School of Health and Nutrition brings together expertise in combating food insecurity and educational program development. Long Island Cares, known for its dedication to fighting hunger, joins forces with RIT's academic prowess to create a robust nutrition education program. This partnership leverages the strengths of both organizations to address the pressing needs of the community. Together, they aim to create lasting positive changes in how residents approach their eating habits.

Food insecurity affects many individuals and families, limiting their access to nutritious and affordable food. 'About Eating NY' seeks to understand the specific needs and challenges faced by those struggling with food insecurity in Long Island. By collecting data through surveys and interactive modules, the program identifies key areas where support is needed the most. This understanding allows for the development of targeted solutions that can make a real difference in people's lives.

Education is at the heart of the 'About Eating NY' initiative. The program offers six online modules that provide valuable information on food budgeting, meal planning, and making informed food choices. By equipping individuals with these essential skills, the program helps them take control of their nutritional health. Samantha Abella, the nutrition resource manager at Long Island Cares, emphasizes that informed choices lead to better health outcomes and improved quality of life.

To encourage participation, 'About Eating NY' includes an engaging survey that users can complete alongside the online modules. Participants who complete the survey and modules will be entered to win an Amazon gift card, adding an element of excitement to the learning process. This interactive approach not only gathers important data but also motivates individuals to engage actively with the content. The feedback collected will help Rochester fine-tune the program, ensuring it meets the community's needs effectively.

'About Eating NY' represents a significant step forward in tackling food insecurity and promoting healthy eating habits in Long Island. By combining the efforts of Long Island Cares and RIT/Wegmans School of Health and Nutrition, the initiative aims to create a lasting impact on the community's health and well-being. Residents are encouraged to take part in the online modules and survey to benefit from the program and contribute to its ongoing success. Together, these efforts are paving the way for a healthier, more informed New York.