In early August, the Order of Malta and ACU Community Hub in partnership with Your Community Health, launched a four-week Cooking and Connection program at Preston North East Primary School. The Darebin Information, Volunteer and Resource Service (DIVRS) kindly donated fresh food and pantry items towards the weekly recipe demonstrations.

The program was designed based on an opportunity that was identified through conversations with community to build the capacity of parents around food security and nutrition. Master of Dietetic Practice students from the Australian Catholic University have been instrumental in the planning and delivery of the program as part of their professional placement.

A group of eight parents from diverse communities joined the inaugural program. Participants completed a short survey in the first session which provided feedback regarding the topics they were keen to learn more about, and which informed the content of each session. Topics included the Australian dietary guidelines, learning how to interpret the nutrition labels and the health star rating system, and exploring lunchbox options. During the second part of each session, the group assisted with the preparation of a nutritious and low-budget meal or snack which the participants took home.

For the final session of the four-week program, the participants were invited to bring a dish or recipe to share with the group. This event was a wonderful celebration of the new knowledge that was gained, the new friendships that were formed, and provided an opportunity for the group to taste and discuss dishes from across the world, including from Somalia, Eritrea, and Hong Kong.

A post-program survey highlighted that the program was well received and included comments such as “Excellent information conveyed in a professional and friendly environment”. All parents reported that their food choices had changed in a positive way, with many participants reporting that they are using the information that they have learnt to make nutritious meals. Furthermore, all parents found that they had made some significant connections through the program and enjoyed the interactions they had.

A second Cooking and Connection program will kick off in mid-September and will include the trial of a cooking program with children during the spring school holidays.

We are seeking members and volunteers from the Order of Malta to provide hands on support for the program. If you are able to assist, please contact Anna.Vandierendonck@acu.edu.au for more information.