Healthy for Life® Community Nutrition Program
Nutrition Program Participants pose for a group photo during their last session.
In June 2024, MyClinic introduced "Healthy for Life," a four-week community nutrition initiative aimed at fostering sustainable healthful practices. Every Saturday morning, participants gathered at MyClinic to embark on a journey toward better health. The program implemented an evidence-based curriculum created by Aramark and the American Heart Association that included “Healthy for Life” lesson plans and recipes.
MyClinic’s Community Nutrition Program was born from a collaboration with Maura Plante, Founder and CEO of Living Hungry. Maura had recently concluded a comprehensive 26 week "Healthy Food Prescription Program," which educated clients on Diabetes management through nutrition education, cooking demonstrations, health coaching, and provided participants with a free supply of fresh produce.
Nineteen individuals who completed Maura's program, representing a diverse mix of Latin American and Caribbean heritage, eagerly joined "Healthy for Life." Language barriers were bridged with the help of a Spanish translator, ensuring inclusive participation.
Mary Gocke, a Registered Dietitian and expert Nutrition Consultant, led the program with a clear objective: to empower those diagnosed with Diabetes with the knowledge and skills needed to improve their health through informed food choices and lifestyle adjustments.
Mary Gocke, with assistance from participant Camila, uses a can of soda to discuss the importance of avoiding everyday food items that contain high amounts of sugar
Mary’s goals for the program were as follows:
“This program was designed to teach participants, diagnosed with Diabetes, how to eat well, shop well, and be well. We had a significant positive impact on each individuals' health and quality of life as we empowered them with practical knowledge and skills to effectively manage their condition through lifestyle changes.” – Mary Gocke
Mary Gocke demonstrates to the class how to review nutrition labels for amounts of sugar and protein
Mary Gocke takes the group to Walmart for an instructional experience on how to shop healthier and spend less.
Mary Gocke assists participants select which grocery products will have healthiest impact on their family’s diet.