y n Dig into FEAST... T he culture of food is changing as we realize choices at the dinner table influence health on many levels. Food not only affects our bodies, but also our quality of life, relationships, communities and ultimately our society. As families change their diets, cooking education is essential. If families know how to prepare wholesome meals, they are more likely to choose healthy options. The FEAST program is dedicated to Fresh, Easy, Affordable, Sustainable and Tasty food. Since 2009, FEAST has offered cooking classes at Asheville City and Buncombe County Schools and in the Pisgah View, Hillcrest, Burton Street and Shiloh communities. FEAST is a program of Slow Food Asheville and works in partnership with the City of Asheville,YMCA, Project MARCH Learning Centers, MANNA Foodbank,Women’s Wellbeing and Development Foundation, and local growers. FEAST promotes the use of fresh, seasonal local ingredients, encouraging all communities in Asheville to have access to essential nutrients and minerals: the foundation of healthy people and the building blocks of healthy communities. Meanwhile, group cooking experiences are nourishing in sometimes unexpected ways…. Thanks to our sponsors! Southerland Foundation, Asheville City Schools Foundation, Community Foundation of WNC, Anolon Cookware, and Slow Food USA. Integrative Education As students cook, they incorporate lessons from math, science, language arts and health classes. The practice kitchen safety rules, learn how to follow recipes, and properly make measurements. Communication Working in small groups, students learn how to collaborate, compromise and problem solve. Simple adjustments to tone of voice and choice of language immediately change dynamics in the kitchen. Nutrition Students are encouraged to find the types of foods that make their brains and bodies operate best, which usually means a diet low in sugar. They learn how to plan a well-balanced meal with proper portion sizes. Just a Few of the Ways FEAST Nourishes Communities THE DOGGY BAG: Taking it Home “ The parents say that kids try things at home that they learned in FEAST classes, and even correct them on the proper way to cook.” –Sara Monson, 6th grade teacher of Exploring Career Decisions “I really love this activity because it gives us good food that is good for us.” –Brianna, age 13 “It is so much fun to cook with you because you teach us cool new dishes.” –Tyler, age 12 Connection to Local Food Students learn which foods are in season that time of year. Meals incorporate fresh, locally grown produce, and when possible, students harvest herbs and vegetables directly from gardens to add to the meals. Fair Distribution In spreading access of healthy food, FEAST is improving lives and creating healthy communities in all parts of the city. “In reality, FEAST is a social justice program.” Cathy Cleary, co-founder of FEAST.