This post was written by Samantha Chamberlain MS, RD
Did you know that March is National Nutrition Month? Established by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, this annual celebration highlights the vital role nutrition plays in overall health and well-being. This year’s theme, “Discover the Power of Nutrition,” invites us to reflect on how powerful nutritious food can be—and we here at Foodlink pride ourselves on extending this power not only to individuals, but to entire communities.
At Foodlink, this year’s theme deeply resonates with our mission. Every day, we work tirelessly to leverage the power of food to end hunger and build healthier communities. From stocking local food pantries with wholesome ingredients to distributing fresh produce across our region, our efforts are rooted in the belief that healthy food is a human right. The work we do at Foodlink’s Community Kitchen is no exception to these beliefs.
Each day, our dedicated staff and volunteers prepare and deliver more than 10,000 meals and snacks to schools, after-school programs and local childcare centers. While the volume alone is remarkable, what truly sets these meals apart is how they’re made. Every dish is thoughtfully crafted, nutritious, and scratch-cooked using real ingredients. But what does “scratch-cooked” mean in our kitchen?
It means making our signature mac and cheese sauce from scratch using real cheese, butter, and cream. It means preparing our delectable home fries from actual russet potatoes—diced, seasoned, and baked to golden perfection. It means cooking one of our crowd favorites, “Rasta Pasta”, with diced bell peppers and unadulterated chicken breast.
In today’s world, balanced, nutrient-dense meals aren’t always the norm. Convenience, cost, and limited access to healthful ingredients can create significant barriers for families trying to put wholesome food on the table. That’s exactly why we, at the Community Kitchen, take pride in stepping up to help fill the gap for our community.
And beyond what’s happening on the plate, something equally powerful is happening behind the scenes. Did you know that it can take up to 10 exposures to a new food before a child begins to accept—and even enjoy—it?
By consistently offering meals that include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins, we’re doing more than meeting immediate nutritional needs. We’re helping shape developing palates. We’re normalizing fresh, nourishing ingredients. We’re building the foundation for lifelong healthy eating habits that support growth, learning, and overall well-being. Now if that’s not “Discovering the Power of Nutrition”, then we don’t know what is. Happy National Nutrition Month all, from us to you!
