In a growing movement for sustainability and nutrition, Mount Mary University (MMU), Trinity Woods, and Clare Gardens have partnered for a “Farm-to-Table” program. This initiative highlights the importance of local ingredients, sustainability, and community engagement, benefiting students, residents, and the environment.
A Meaningful Partnership
The partnership between MMU, Trinity Woods, and the School Sisters of Notre Dame focuses on shared goals of education and sustainable practices. For many MMU alumni who now reside at Trinity Woods, the connection is both meaningful and community-building. Residents participate in activities, audit classes, and engage in various events that enhance camaraderie and lifelong learning. One of those events is the Farm-to-Table event that is hosted by the MMU Dietetics program.
MMU & Trinity Woods Farm-to-Table Program
The partnership between MMU, Trinity Senior Services’ Clare Gardens, and Trinity Woods began simply, with MMU students touring Clare Gardens to learn about sustainable farming. Meagan Maritato, Assistant Professor and Dietetic Internship Program Director at MMU, recognized the impactful work at Clare Gardens and Trinity Woods and quickly seized the opportunity to expand the collaboration. She initiated the Farm-to-Table program, officially launched in 2022, which provides students with hands-on experience in food service management and nutrition counseling through guided farm tours, creating resident-inspired culinary dishes, and conducting nutrition counseling sessions.
The primary goal of the Farm to Table initiative is to emphasize the importance of fresh, locally sourced ingredients in meal preparation while providing students with practical experience in food service management. This includes:
– Tours of Clare Gardens: Students participate in guided tours to learn about organic farming, enhancing their understanding of where food comes from.
– Hands-on Culinary Experiences: Students create seasonal recipes based on residents’ preferences, adapting menus to utilize what is available from local farms.
– Nutrition Counseling: Interns conduct sessions with residents, offering personalized dietary advice and practicing essential skills in a supportive environment.
The Annual Resident Event
One of the highlights of the Farm-to-Table program is the paid dinner event, where MMU students present their culinary creations to the residents of Trinity Woods. This event, typically held in October to coincide with the fall harvest, has become a much-anticipated occasion.
Students develop a five-course menu that reflects the flavors of the season, incorporating fresh produce and ingredients sourced from Clare Gardens. Dinner is not just about food; it serves as a platform for fostering community connections, allowing students and residents to mingle and share experiences. The feedback from previous dinners has been overwhelmingly positive, with residents appreciating the elevated dining experience and
the creativity of the student chefs. This interaction not only enhances the residents’ dining experience but also allows students to witness the real impact of their culinary skills.
Looking Forward
The MMU-Trinity Woods partnership is set to grow with future initiatives like a Nutrition Education Course and hands-on learning for students in clinical rotations. This program not only enriches dining experiences but also stands as a model for integrating sustainability and nutrition in community living.
Through this collaboration, MMU and Trinity Woods exemplify how educational institutions, and senior communities can work together to improve food quality, foster sustainability, and build community connections.
