Over the past ten years, the University of Central Florida’s Wellness and Health Promotion Services has operated FreshU Kitchen to provide students with access to healthy food. With a recent $100,000 award from Florida Blue, the program is set to expand its services.
“We are beyond thrilled to have a dedicated community partner in Florida Blue. Their unwavering support creates a healthier UCF community,” said Stephanie Spies ’06 ’09MA, director of Wellness and Health Promotion Services. “FreshU Kitchen has evolved into a comprehensive care unit for our students, empowering one Knight at a time.”
The funding from Florida Blue will help FreshU Kitchen reach more students by expanding access to fresh foods, cooking education, and nutrition resources. The program started as small campus gardens but now provides thousands of free meals each year while offering cooking education.
Last month, FreshU Kitchen held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate renovations made possible by the donation. The funds allowed UCF to purchase professional kitchen equipment and increase the number of cooking classes and demonstrations offered. This expansion also ensures greater availability of fresh produce for students experiencing food insecurity.
The improvements are expected to allow FreshU Kitchen to serve over 11,000 students annually, up from 8,000 previously.
“At Florida Blue, we believe that access to healthy food is a fundamental right, and we’re proud to support UCF’s FreshU Kitchen program in its mission to combat food insecurity and promote student success. This investment in the UCF community aligns with our commitment to building a healthier Florida, and we’re excited to see the positive impact it will have on the lives of thousands of students,” said Tony Jenkins, Central Florida Market president at Florida Blue.
FreshU Kitchen is part of UCF’s Division of Student Success and Well-Being. The division offers various services designed to help students succeed through holistic experiences that encourage well-being.
Research indicates that poor nutrition can contribute to chronic health conditions and affect academic performance due to issues like reduced concentration. By providing nutritious meals and educational opportunities about healthy eating habits, FreshU Kitchen aims to improve student health outcomes and support academic achievement.
