Presenter: Nathasha Khan, Nursing, Global Public Health Scholars
For my practicum, I volunteered in Washington D.C. at Martha’s Table Market. Martha’s
Table provides families and communities in Wards 7 and 8 with more access to resources and opportunities. Specifically, in Marth a’s Table Market, the goal is to encourage more healthy eating habits and access to nutritious foods. This goal could decrease the risk of chronic diseases, improve the growth and development and mental health of children, and decrease the cost of health care. As a volunteer, I packed grocery bags (containing meal-tip cards and produce and non-perishable goods) and handed them out to community members; helped prepare and package hot meals that were later distributed to shelters; and unloaded, restocked, and loaded donated food. It was a great opportunity to interact with the local community and see firsthand how the
lack of access to nutritious food and grocery stores can impact their health.