A new community teaching kitchen near Sarnia's downtown core will help promote healthy eating habits.
The Rapids Family Health Team celebrated the grand opening of the kitchen at the former Keelan’s Plaza, at Christina St. and Maxwell St., Tuesday.
Health Promoter Cynthia McColeman recognized NOVA Chemicals for its $20,000 donation toward the facility, which will be used as a free teaching hub for young and old.
"Chefs in Training for ages 7-11, Rainbow Plate which gets toddlers more involved in the kitchen, as well as our Teen Cuisine," says McColeman. "We have a great teen cuisine program that allows teenagers to get excited about being in the kitchen, which is a really huge gap in our community right now."
Adult programs will also be offered to assist people with diabetes, IBS, heart conditions and those who are eating for one or on a tight budget.
McColeman says they're also looking at expanding mental health programs.
"We are noticing that there is more need for suicide survivor support groups and other mental health support groups. We're recognizing that there needs to be more of a safe space and we're hoping to be able to provide that."
Program details can be found at www.rapidsfhteam.ca.
The Christina Street Pharmacy and a cardio-pulmonary rehab centre, operated by the West Lambton Community Health Centre, are also located within the facility.
