At our organization, we believe that true transformation extends beyond emotional and spiritual health—it encompasses physical well-being, too. That’s why we were thrilled to welcome Sara Roper, a nurse practitioner with expertise in nutrition, to our homes over the past few weeks. Sara has a passion for teaching practical, budget-friendly ways to eat healthily, and her visits have been nothing short of inspiring.
One of the most valuable aspects of Sara’s workshops is her hands-on approach. She doesn’t just lecture about the benefits of whole grains and vegetables—she dives right into the men’s kitchens with them. Her interactive sessions cover everything from meal planning to grocery shopping strategies, helping our residents see that eating healthy doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank.
But the highlight of Sara’s visits? Her famous “fridge audits.” With the men’s permission, Sara opens up their refrigerators and pantries to evaluate what they’re currently eating. These audits are equal parts educational and entertaining. Sara has a knack for turning what could feel like a critique into a lighthearted, empowering moment of self-reflection. Whether it’s a jar of mystery leftovers or an expired salad dressing, she uses these discoveries to teach practical lessons about food storage, portioning, and making healthier choices.
For many of the men, this experience has been eye-opening. They’ve learned how to swap out calorie-laden, processed foods for affordable, nutrient-rich options. Sara also introduced creative recipes like black bean chili and vegetable stir-fry, which have quickly become household favorites. Her emphasis on cooking as a life skill has been transformative, giving the men not only better health but also a sense of independence and confidence.
We’re so grateful to Sara for sharing her time, expertise, and energy with us. By equipping the men with the tools to eat well on a budget, she’s giving them more than just healthier meals—she’s giving them hope, self-respect, and a foundation for a better future. Thank you, Sara, for reminding us that even the smallest changes can lead to big transformations!