The Secret Ingredient: Meet the ECHD Chef Fueling Wellness and Recovery
At the Erie County Health Department, health is comprehensive. It’s not just about clinical care; it’s about providing an environment that supports healing and well-being in every possible way. And nowhere is this mission more delicious than in our kitchen!
We are excited to spotlight the heart of our nutritional support in our newest 2-Minute Health Break, featuring our phenomenal kitchen staff and head chef.
Nourishment for Every Program
Our dedicated culinary team provides vital, scratch-made lunches daily for three very different, but equally important, ECHD programs:
- Compass Point: Our senior adult day program, where nutritious meals keep our cherished elders engaged and energized.
- Erie County Detox: Providing essential, stabilizing nutrition to those beginning their journey to sobriety.
- Kaptur Treatment & Recovery: Serving healthy, comforting food to support the sustained wellness of patients in long-term treatment.
Learning to Cook with Care
Leading the effort is our Chef, who developed her extraordinary ability to cook for a crowd early on. As one of twelve children, she learned the value of preparing hearty, loving meals that could satisfy many. She brings that same level of care and scale to our facilities every day.
For her, cooking is an act of patient care. In the video, she explains that her goal is to create something that will truly “stick with our patients,” providing both physical strength and emotional comfort.
A Recipe for Recovery
What is her formula for a meal that supports recovery and wellness? It’s simple, powerful, and nutritionally sound:
- Start with Protein: The foundation of every plate is a good, solid source of protein to provide lasting energy and aid in recovery.
- Balance with Color: Next, she piles on the fresh vegetables and fruit, ensuring a vibrant, vitamin-packed plate.
- Season with Love: And the final, non-negotiable step? “Season with love.” This secret ingredient is the intention she puts into every dish—the simple, profound act of caring for a person through nourishing food.
🎥 Watch the Full Segment!
We invite you to take a quick peek inside our kitchen and meet the amazing people who provide this essential service. You’ll be inspired by their dedication and the warmth they pour into every plate.
Click here to watch the full ECHD 2-Minute Health Break:
Thank you to our entire kitchen team for fueling health, hope, and recovery in our community!
