E.A.T. tackles food insecurity and builds lifelong healthy habits by combining nutrition education, cooking demonstrations, and access to free or low-cost food resources. Participants learn to prepare nutritious, affordable meals and gain the confidence to make healthier choices for themselves and their families.

Each event begins with a presentation from the San Diego Food Bank’s Nutrition and Wellness Team on topics like Introduction to Nutrition, Reading Nutrition Labels, and Grocery Shopping on a Budget. Residents then cook together, preparing a healthy, budget-friendly recipe selected by the Resident Services Coordinator. These gatherings strengthen community connections while empowering residents with practical skills.

At the end of each session, participants take home a bag of groceries, ensuring they can recreate what they’ve learned. Compass partners with local organizations and food banks to provide these tangible resources, helping families extend the benefits of the program beyond the event itself.