Shockingly Affordable: LI Cares Staff Transform Shelter Supplies into Nutritious Meals

In Long Island, two dedicated women are transforming the way communities approach healthy eating. Samantha Somers and Laura Simmons, employees of Long Island Cares, are on a mission to prove that nutritious meals can be affordable. Their work focuses on helping individuals and families access and prepare wholesome foods without breaking the bank. By addressing food insecurity, they play a vital role in promoting overall health and wellbeing in the community.

Samantha Somers serves as the nutrition resource manager, while Laura Simmons is the nutrition educator for the 'Just Say Yes to Fruits and Vegetables' program. Together, they form the backbone of Long Island Cares' Network Relations department, which supports numerous food pantries, shelters, and soup kitchens. Their collaborative efforts ensure that those in need receive not only food but also the knowledge to make healthy choices. Their dedication has earned them the title of 'behind-the-scenes champions' within the organization.

Somers and Simmons conduct workshops and cooking demonstrations that showcase how to create delicious, nutritious meals using low-cost ingredients. They emphasize the importance of a balanced diet, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. By teaching practical cooking techniques, especially for those without access to ovens or stoves, they make healthy eating accessible to everyone. Their programs aim to raise awareness about food insecurity and the critical role of good nutrition in maintaining health.

The duo shares valuable strategies for stretching food budgets while maintaining a healthy diet. They recommend using coupons, buying produce in season, and opting for generic brands to save money. Additionally, they advise shoppers to avoid buying processed foods by focusing on the perimeter of supermarkets, where fresh foods are typically located. By incorporating canned and frozen fruits and vegetables, individuals can enjoy nutritious meals that are both affordable and long-lasting. These practical tips empower people to make better food choices without overspending.

Laura Simmons introduced the Healthy Pantry Initiative, which collaborates with agencies like ECLI-Vibes to promote nutritious food options in pantries. This initiative ensures that clients receive fresh fruits and vegetables, along with easy-to-follow recipes, making healthy eating both simple and enjoyable. The partnership with ECLI-Vibes enhances the pantry's offerings, providing survivors of various hardships with access to wholesome foods. Gina Ocello of ECLI-Vibes praises Simmons for her dedication and innovative meal planning, highlighting the positive impact of the initiative on the community.

Through their unwavering commitment, Somers and Simmons have significantly improved access to healthy, affordable food for many in Long Island. Their efforts not only address immediate food needs but also empower individuals with the knowledge to sustain a nutritious diet long-term. By fostering community partnerships and introducing impactful programs like the Healthy Pantry Initiative, they ensure that the benefits of their work reach far and wide. Long Island Cares is fortunate to have such passionate advocates dedicated to enhancing the health and wellbeing of their community.