Cooking and nutrition classes are changing lives like Tracey’s thanks to Resident Services.

Tracey, a native of Milwaukee, has lived at Mercy Housing Lakefront’s St. Catherine Residence since 2010. Tracey followed in her mother’s footsteps with a career in the printing industry, which she continues today with a part-time job.

Since moving to St. Catherine’s, Tracey has enjoyed many community events and programs. The cooking and nutrition classes she participated in last year were particularly meaningful. “I really care about my well-being,” Tracey explains. She was also familiar with Rita, the instructor and a member of the Friends of St. Catherine’s, from previous classes and workshops.

During the classes, Tracey learned how to cook using healthier foods, including plant-based protein sources such as beans and nuts. She took home new recipes to try by herself too.

Tracey also appreciated the opportunity to share her experiences with other St. Catherine’s residents. “I really liked getting together with the other residents here.”

Since she finished the class in April 2019, Tracey has noticed the program’s impact on her life. “I feel more confident in the kitchen, [and] I’m more active. I feel like I have more energy.” She knows the classes have increased her awareness of healthy foods. “I’m eating more salads and healthier meats like turkey.”

Overall, the classes have improved Tracey’s mental and physical health: “I’m healthier and I feel less tired than before.”