Growing Hope How Shemecka McNeil Turns Food Into Freedom for Low Income Families

Shemecka is a health and nutrition leader who blends her deep understanding for foods roll in wellness with her passion for community empowerment. Growing up in rural South Carolina, witnessing preventable health issues in her family, inspired her mission to promote nutrition as the cornerstone of health. With over a decades worth of experience in the health sector Shemecka founded her nonprofit Slice 325 to help low income families create healthy and affordable meals. As a trained chef, healthcare professional and a hands on farmer, Shemeckas unique skillset allows her to address health from many different angles. As the Executive Director of Slice 325, her dedication for health equity and sustainable practices has made her a catalyst for change. Recognized as a 'PSA grower' and a 'Paul Harris Fellow', Shemecka exemplifies leadership which is rooted in heritage and a commitment for a sustainable future. Hopefully after this episode you will understand for yourself that stagnate wages, accessibility and high cost of living are just a few reasons that contribute to a poor diet. and Shemecka is on mission to help low income families maximize their resources and create healthy, affordable meals! Questions, Talking Points & Time Stamps 1. Why do you believe access to whole foods is a social justice issue? - 22:48 2. Is the treatment of BIPOC populations regarding food access a result of intentional neglect or are systemic issues being overlooked? - 29:42 3. For people living in urban areas how can one start to grow fruits and vegetables at home? - 35:07 4. What are food deserts? - 36:54 5. What is the difference between food deserts and food insecurity? - 38:34 6. What are your opinions on GMO food? - 39:31 7. What are the biggest barriers and challenges in creating a just and equitable food system? - 42:02 8. In order to be more mindful towards our treatment towards each other should we first start with our diet? - 46:35 9. How can one prevent or manage diabetes? 54:57 10. What does Slice325’s creative sustainability program entail? - 57:17 11. How can we be more sustainable with our food waste? 1:1:30 Social Media, Website & More! https://x.com/325Slice   / slice325   https://slice325.org   / shemecka-mcneil-els-sme-gap-a83941198   Email: support@slice325.org Number: 919.730.6730 About JSpeaks: Website: https://www.aboutjspeaks.com Mission Statement: To connect, educate and empower the world one spotlight at a time Vision Statement: To leave a lasting impact on the world that challenges people to think, consider and better themselves The purpose of my channel is to share and spread content to the world that is positive, motivational, educational and informational. I believe that there are educated, motivated and all around good people everywhere who if they had the opportunity would love to impart their knowledge, interests, stories and skills for the greater good of the world. My charge is to try to find those people and use my platform to promote them, their practice and business all the while leaving a positive impact on the world! Quote: “I do not want to move fast.. I want to move correctly” – Rick Ross Sign up TODAY to be apart of JSpeaks Newsletter: https://newsletter.aboutjspeaks.com