Fresh Rec Stop Recipe: Kale Pesto
By Garrett Simpson, Community Health Leader This Kale Pesto is a great way to kick off the month. As part of a heart-healthy diet, kale can reduce the risk of heart disease by helping lower LDL cholesterol or “bad cholesterol.” Kale offers an abundance of nutrients that support heart health, including potassium, fiber, folate, and calcium. Basil provides additional heart-protective benefits, containing compounds like flavonoids and polyphenols that may contribute to cardiovascular health. Garlic is known for its potential to lower
Fresh Rec Stop Recipe: Greek Yogurt Chocolate Pudding
By Garrett Simpson, Community Health Leader With the new year right around the corner everyone is trying to set themselves up for success. The best way to set yourself up nutritionally is to eat probiotics daily. Probiotics help your body maintain healthy gut microorganisms. Greek yogurt is full of probiotics that help prevent obesity. It’s a great source of calcium and can keep you satisfied for longer. Dark Chocolate is a powerful source of antioxidants. It may improve blood flow and
FRESH REC STOP RECIPE: VEGAN PUMPKIN PUREE
By Garrett Simpson, Community Health Leader Now that Fall is upon us it is time to dive into all the flavors the season has for us. This recipe has some very nutritious elements that you and your family should try for dessert or snack. Pumpkin is a rich source of heart-healthy nutrients like fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. Several studies have connected eating dried dates with improved brain function. Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber. Fiber takes longer to digest
Fresh Rec Stop Recipe: Strawberry Cucumber Salsa
By Garrett Simpson, Community Health Leader Did you know that June 17th is National Eat Your Veggies day? This month’s Fresh Rec Stop recipe is centered around just that idea. Because the last thing you want to do during the dog days of summer is crank up the oven - here is a much cooler recipe for you to try instead. Fresh strawberries, cucumbers, and avocados are everywhere during the summer months. Strawberries are good for your whole body. They naturally deliver
Summer Food Service Program
The Summer Food Service Program has returned! The St. Petersburg Parks & Recreation Department has teamed up with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Service’s Summer BreakSpot to offer FREE breakfast and/or lunch at City sites throughout St. Pete to anyone 18 years and younger. Whether your child is a participant in City summer camps, visiting the library, or at the Dell Holmes Splash Pad, they can enjoy a free meal with friends at one of the Summer Food locations. No registration required. Find
Where to Find FREE Food & Meals During the Holiday Season
By Meagan Young, Health Program Supervisor St. Petersburg’s residents are known for helping take care of their fellow community members. This is especially true during the holiday months when expenses for families increase substantially, which can make it very difficult to provide nutritious snacks and meals. Did you know there are numerous organizations throughout the city that provide support in the form of a Box of Groceries or a Hot Meal service year-round for community members? Feeding Tampa Bay is a fantastic online
Cancer Fighting Super Foods
By: Melissa Scoggin, Community Health Leader October is known for pumpkins and spooky Halloween fun, but we also need to remember that October is breast cancer awareness month. As we continue the fight the battle against various cancers, we want to spotlight some super foods that can help boost the immune system while combating cancer. Keeping your immune system healthy is an important part of overall wellbeing. However, for cancer patients a strong immune system is crucial. According to the recent article “Superfoods
Produce in the Heart of St. Pete: Brick Street Farms
By: Madeline McNaughton, Brick Street Farms (Healthier Together Certified Workplace) Brick Street Farms is leading the way in the evolution of agriculture and doing it the right way! As we all become more aware of the impacts of climate change and where agricultural monoliths are falling short for our communities, we see a glaring emphasis on the need for institutional change and a focus on our communities’ health and wellbeing. St. Petersburg residents deserve access to nutrient-rich foods without struggle or strife. That
Immunity Boosting Vitamins in Fruit and Vegetables
A diet rich in nutrients is one of the best ways to prevent illnesses. Immunity boosting vitamins found in fruit and vegetables help build a strong defense against sickness and disease. By eating a variety of produce, you gain the natural strength to protect yourself from viruses and bacteria. The Immune System The immune system includes complex parts of the body like cells, tissues, and organs that fight germs and infections. It is important to do everything you can to keep these
Guide to Growing Urban Agriculture
Access to healthy, affordable food is vital for a sustainable community. A strong local food system improves health, promotes equity, and strengthens our economy. The Healthy St. Pete team works with the Office of Sustainability & Resilience and urban agriculture stakeholders to collaborate on community wide access to food & nutrition. There is a rising demand for sustainably produced, local food in cities. In response, St. Petersburg City Council approved related ordinance amendments to expand opportunities for the production and sale of