Nutrition Program

The ACHD Nutrition Program is dedicated to promoting health and well-being in our community. Our initiatives are designed to improve health outcomes, ensure access to healthy foods, and strengthen our local food system.

Nutrition Program Goals:

• Improving health outcomes for those served in Allegany County
• Expanding access to nourishing foods for all
• Improving the local food system

How do we accomplish those goals?

• Group nutrition education classes held at ACHD and throughout the county.
• Nutrition counseling for ACHD program participants
• Collaboration with community programs to improve the food system and overall health, including the Western Maryland Food Council (WMFC), Maryland Food System Resiliency Council (FSRC), University of Maryland Extension (UME) Advisory Committee, and Allegany College of Maryland’s Community Resilience Network (CRN)

FREE Nutrition Classes:
Want to change your relationship with food for the better? Looking for ways to reduce stress and live a more balanced and healthy lifestyle? Join one of our FREE nutrition classes! 

• MEAL PLANNING ON A BUDGET: First Tuesday of January, March, May, July, September, and November
  Would you like a roadmap to delicious, nutritious meals? Join us for practical tips and budget-friendly recipe ideas to stretch your food dollar without compromising on flavor or nutrition. Learn smart shopping tips and tools to plan and cook healthy meals. Take control of your food budget while enjoying satisfying, home-cooked foods.
• TAMING YOUR SWEET TOOTH:  First Tuesday of February, April, June, August, October, and December
  Do you find yourself reaching for something sweet too often? Join our class to learn more about sugar and why we crave it. Learn nutrition facts, practical tips, and mindful eating tools to help you make informed choices, eat less sugar, and enjoy sweets in a smart way. Discover the secrets to living a healthy, happy, sweet life.

• MINDFUL EATING BASICS:  Second Tuesday of each month
  Would you like to eat with more focus, instead of mindlessly munching?  In this class, we’ll use fun, hands-on activities to explore mindful eating.  Learn how to connect with your hunger and fullness, savor each bite, and cultivate a deeper appreciation for food.  Join us in this mindful approach to food that nourishes both body and soul.
  

• STRESS MANAGEMENT SKILLS FOR BALANCED LIVING: Fourth Tuesday of each month
  In today’s fast-paced world, stress can take a toll on both our minds and bodies. This monthly support group offers a safe and welcoming space to explore practical tools for managing stress. Together, we’ll practice calming techniques like breathwork, meditation, and gentle movement, including chair yoga. Join us to nurture your well-being, build resilience, and find support in a caring community.

Classes are held from 5 to 6 PM on the ground floor of the Allegany County Health Department at 12501 Willowbrook Road, Cumberland, MD. To learn more and register, email [email protected] or call 301-759-5270.

Try these FREE healthy and delicious recipes!

These printable recipe sheets were included in Community Farmers’ Bounty Boxes which were provided earlier this year through a grant from the Maryland Department of Health, Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Control.  The program will be offered again next summer, so if you would like to be contacted when it is available, please click HERE to be added to our list. 

Minestrone Soup and Side Salad with Honey Vinaigrette

Mushroom and Vegetable Fritatta with a Corn and Tomato Salad

(Instructional videos below.)