Local hunger relief nonprofit MATTER is partnering with the YMCA and a local chef to educate kids about healthy eating.
"The ultimate goal of these partnerships is really to outlast us," said MATTER Program Development Director Karen Manikowski. "To really teach young people, youth, how healthy eating can have a long-term impact on not only their health, but maybe their families and the next generation."
Chef Marshall O'Brien says he learned of MATTER's goal and wanted to help.
"We teach people how nourishing is different than eating and when you eat the right foods and actually nourish your body you can perform and look your best," O'Brien said.
O'Brien's 45-minute cooking demonstrations use recipes from MATTERbox, a box of nutritious, shelf-stable meals provided by the nonprofit. O'Brien's presentations occurred at YMCA locations in neighborhoods that may not have easy access to healthy food.
"We understand that a lot these young people get breakfast and lunch at a free or reduced price at school and might have issues with access to food while they're at home and during the summer," said YMCA Senior Program Director Kate Whitby. "The Y wants to partner with Matter because we have the same goals."
Money raised during 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS' Sumer Harvest for Kids campaign Supports Matter and The Food Group. Learn how to donate here.