Projects

Through a partnership with I-94 Eatz and Learn, RN NOURISH becomes a powerful force for advancing food-based interventions, delivering evidence-backed education, and promoting access to nutritious meals throughout Southeastern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois.

Purpose & Focus

NOURISH exists to:

• Conduct community-based research on the effects of nutrition on behavior and mental health
   

• Offer culturally competent, science-informed guidance led by licensed nurses
   

• Design and evaluate interventions that leverage food as a tool for emotional regulation, cognitive development, and overall wellness
   

• Collaborate with local food providers and social programs to scale access to stable, healthy, affordable meals
   

The Problem We're Addressing

Mounting research points to the devastating impact of poor nutrition, particularly among low-income and minority populations. According to the CDC and NIH:

• Over 80% of U.S. children do not meet the recommended vegetable intake
   

• Diets high in sugar and processed foods are associated with higher rates of anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues in youth
   

• Nutritional deficiencies are linked to attention problems, aggression, and academic underperformance
   

Many families in food deserts rely on quick, cheap, high-calorie meals that create long-term health and cognitive challenges. RN NOURISH aims to reverse this trend with education, access, and nurse-led guidance.

Partnership with I-94 Eatz and Learn

RN NOURISH’s partnership with I-94 Eatz and Learn enhances its impact through real-world meal distribution and family engagement. Together, we will:

• Integrate healthy, pre-prepared meals and EBT-eligible cooking kits into a regional meal access pipeline
   

• Host weekly cooking shows and workshops that link mealtime to mental health and behavior outcomes
   

• Create feedback loops that gather data and share stories of transformation, proving the power of food as medicine
   

Target Audiences

• Parents and caregivers seeking better outcomes for their children
   

• Educators and schools looking to improve academic focus and attendance
   

• Healthcare providers and mental health professionals interested in preventative models
   

• Community-based organizations and nonprofits working in food justice, education, and behavioral health
   

Our Competitive Edge

• Nurse Leadership: Rooted in trust, ethics, and whole-person care
   

• Community-Driven Research: Grounded in real-life experiences and outcomes
   

• Scalable Model: Easily replicable across counties and state lines
   

• Cultural Relevance: Tailored to the communities we serve
   

Vision

To become the Midwest’s leading source of nurse-led research, education, and access around food and mental health, influencing policy, practice, and everyday behavior for a healthier, more resilient generation.