The Nutritional Services Department at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center participated in several successful community outreach events during this holiday season.
In November, the hospital’s registered dietitians, Lindsay Chetelat and Alessandra Venditto collaborated with the New York City Department of Health to host an event at the Jamaica Farmers Market. The event promoted the health benefits of eating fresh, seasonal produce.
Chetelat and Venditto shared recipes with participants and demonstrated ways to prepare fruits and vegetables for a healthy meal. Health Bucks were distributed to guests as part of an initiative to increase access to fresh produce within the five boroughs. Health Bucks are paper vouchers created by the Health Department’s District Public Health Offices. The vouchers provide opportunities for residents to buy fresh and affordable fruits and vegetables while supporting regional farmers.
In December, the Nutritional Services Department’s Clinical Nutrition Manager, Nelly Katan, assisted in the coordination of a NY1 News segment about ‘Eating Healthy during the Holidays.’ Dietitian Lindsay Chetelat shared several healthy eating tips with viewers which included sticking to the Plate Method, eating slowly and allowing yourself one treat. The segment was well-received by many in our community.
To view the news segment, please watch here:
Both initiatives were a great success and are examples of some of the community outreach efforts conducted by the Nutritional Services Department in an effort to increase public education by engaging with residents in our neighborhood. Members of the department work continuously to assist our patients in growing their knowledge about nutrition, wellness and healthy eating. We look forward to their advancements in the New Year.