www.ofldetroit.wordpress.com

Operation Frontline [[OFL) is a program offered through Share Our Strength, a national organization based in Washington, DC that works to combat childhood hunger. In order to serve the community better, Operation Frontline is hosted at local nonprofits across the country. In Southeastern Michigan, OFL is hosted by Gleaners Community Food Bank in Detroit, which has a long history of fighting hunger in the Metro area. OFL approaches food security in a way that goes beyond emergency food assistance – it provides nutrition education and cooking classes for low-income folks [[most eligible for SNAP, or food stamps), focusing on introducing more whole grains, fruits, and vegetables into participants’ diets. Just as important, the classes also teach how to cook and eat healthily on a budget, often highlighting what foods are less expensive and more nutritious.

Classes are facilitated by a team comprised of a professional chef and a nutritionist, who volunteer their time and skills. Volunteers find that they really do make a positive impact on the participants’ lives, particularly when both come to the table eager to learn.

If you're interested in becoming involved in OFL or learning more about the program, visit our blog: www.ofldetroit.wordpress.com. The blog is meant to be a resource for both volunteers and participants of Operation Frontline, as well as those interested in food security in Southeastern Michigan. It is also meant to be collaborative amongst anyone who would like to contribute, particularly those who are impacted by OFL.