This video describes the collaborative effort between San Jose State University (SJSU) and Most Holy Trinity Church (MHT). Learn how Dr. Marjorie Freedman, a professor in the department of Nutrition, Food Science and Packaging at SJSU is working to promote the key messages of Let’s Move! to address the high rates of overweight and obesity in a low-income population comprised primarily of ethnic minorities (Vietnamese, Filipino, Hispanic and Samoan) living in East San Jose.

Freedman joined with parishioners to create the MHT Food Justice Ministry, which is focusing its efforts on key messages of Let’s Move! With respect to promoting healthy eating, teens participate in “Cooking Matters” and “Rethink Your Drink Classes.” Nutrition education materials include weekly bulletin columns in three languages, bilingual books promoting water consumption, and Healthy Fresh Food Access Guides. MHT Food Justice is also working on development and adoption of a healthy food and beverage policy.

MHT Food Justice partners with Second Harvest Food Bank and Catholic Charities to promote CalFresh (SNAP) benefits. Through multi-lingual pulpit announcements and tabling after Mass, hundreds of parishioners have been prescreened for benefits. “Double up buck” programs, enabling participants to use their EBT card at local famers’ markets and the Farmstand at nearby Veggielution Community Farm are encouraged.

Finally, MHT youth enjoy music and dance. The Filipino dance groups, Vietnamese Lion dancers, and the MHT Samoan Youth practice fun ways to “Move” while preserving their cultural identity.

This effort is due to the hard work and enthusiasm of SJSU students, MHT parishioners, and the strong support of collaborative partners (e.g., SCC Public Health Department, Social Services Agency, Three Squares, Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market Association, First 5 SCC, Second Harvest Food Bank, Catholic Charities, the Jewish Community Relations Council and Veggielution Community Farm.

Support comes from the Centers for Disease Control.