The L.E.A.F. Initiative is a Commonwell program to support capacity, resiliency and growth in the communities we call home.

Your Brain on Food

26 Montreal Rd CornwallK6H 1B1

Target Completion Date: December 4, 2026

What is this project about?

Your Brain on Food, developed by the Social Development Council of Cornwall and Area, is a hands-on food literacy and cooking program that empowers youth and young adults to connect nutrition with mental well-being. We aim to strengthen cognitive function, enhance emotional resilience, and foster overall mental health by teaching participants how to make nutritious food choices and prepare nutrient-dense meals.

This program emphasizes the growing body of research linking diet and mental well-being, helping youth understand how they eat affects their feelings. Participants gain practical skills in a supportive, collaborative kitchen environment, where they explore healthy, accessible ingredients and the powerful impact of food on mood and overall well-being.

To ensure continued impact, we seek funding for resources to expand and sustain the program, including developing a dedicated culinary teaching kitchen and developing a level 2 of the program. With this space, we can reach more youth, cultivate lifelong skills, and build resilience within our community, all while supporting local food resources. Through Your Brain on Food, we’re fostering a generation that understands the role of food in mental well-being and is equipped to make choices that nurture both the mind and body.

Program-Logo-PDF.pdf

Why is this project important to the community?

Since its inception, Your Brain on Food has empowered young people to understand the profound connection between nutrition and mental well-being. This program addresses a crucial gap in our community by teaching youth and young adults that food choices can influence mood, focus, and resilience. Through hands-on culinary experiences, participants learn and prepare nutrient-dense meals that support mental health and overall well-being instilling lifelong knowledge and skills. Participants have shared their enthusiasm for the program, saying, "I enjoyed every minute of the cooking class, from cutting to mixing and cooking with the group," and "I liked learning how food plays a role in my mental health." Parents have noted their children's increased openness to trying healthy foods and gratitude for a free, accessible program that fosters a positive relationship with nutrition. Receiving the L.E.A.F. Grant would allow us to continue and expand Your Brain on Food, reaching more families and building a community that is informed, resilient, and engaged in nurturing their mental well-being through food. This investment will strengthen community health by supporting youth in making choices that nourish both body and mind, creating ripple effects that extend into homes, schools, and beyond.