On Wednesday, Dec. 3rd, NRC Community Health Worker Cohort 1 students gave a presentation to Project Rise participants about the role they play in their own health, with a multi-tiered focus. NRC students spoke about price disparities–how processed foods are often advertised at sale prices, while healthier products are much more costly–and the layout of grocery stores–how fresh produce is often located just on the perimeters whereas processed foods fill the bulk of stores. CHW students highlighted that individuals should and can inquire about the foods they consume to take an active role in determining which foods are healthy.
In addition to food consumption, CHW students told participants about the importance of being more engaged in their overall health. For example, resources both on-campus and throughout the city, provide individuals with information about sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV. These resources give information about protecting oneself against STDs and also talk about the positive impacts of taking control of one’s sexual health.