The Community Nutrition team at the CU Anschutz Health and Wellness Center has launched two new cooking series designed to help Coloradans eat well while staying within a budget. These classes are tailored to meet the needs of low-income individuals and families, with a special emphasis on those receiving Medicaid, Medicare, or SNAP benefits. Each series delivers practical cooking and nutrition tips in an accessible and culturally relevant format.
Healthy Eating on a Budget (English – Virtual)
This virtual series is open to adults ages 19 and older across Colorado who want to make the most of their food budget while still preparing healthy meals. It’s especially designed for those receiving Medicaid, Medicare, or SNAP benefits. Participants learn strategies for grocery shopping on a budget and discover simple, nutritious meal ideas using everyday ingredients. "Our team is excited to share budget-friendly ideas, cook delicious recipes, and connect virtually with the Colorado community," says Haley Stevens, RD from the Community Nutrition Programs team.
Comer Sano con un Presupuesto! (Spanish – In Person)
Offered in Spanish and currently held in person, this series is designed for low-income Hispanic/Latino adults who receive Medicaid, Medicare, or SNAP. Participants explore culturally familiar meals while learning affordable and nutritious cooking techniques. Topics include smart shopping habits, basic nutrition 101, and preparing balanced meals. Jazmin Valencia, RD, who will be leading the series, shares, "I'm excited to be part of these classes that help break down barriers to nutrition literacy by making healthy habits accessible, practical, and rooted in familiar, culturally relevant foods—supporting long-term well-being throughout our community."
Cooking for Healthy Aging (Virtual)
Focused on older adults, particularly those 40 and up, this virtual series connects the dots between nutrition and long-term health, including brain and heart wellness. Each session offers cooking tips, ingredient swaps, and simple recipes like chicken spinach burgers or chickpea shakshuka that support healthy aging. “We hope these free classes give people a place to learn from nutrition experts, connect with others in the community, and ask cooking questions with their heart and brain health in mind,” says Courtney Kiang, RD, who is facilitating the series.
These thoughtfully designed programs reflect Community Nutrition’s commitment to supporting individuals with practical skills to prepare healthy, affordable meals—regardless of income or cooking experience. The Community Nutrition Programs team partners with organizations like the Food Bank of the Rockies, Dawn Clinic, Multidisciplinary Center on Aging, and Amigos de Mexico to bring nutrition education to the Colorado community.
To learn more about these classes visit us at anschutzwellness.com
