A HEALTHIER, STRONGER MIAMI-DADE: A WORD FROM SUMMER INTERN SHIRBRINA

Throughout the summer, I have participated in efforts to minimize the effects of food insecurity among children in Miami-Dade County. This included improving interactions between community members and outside groups. Furthermore, our work by participating in enrichment activities promoted community engagement. We were able to match the interests of the children we worked with while also meeting their needs.

Goals were met to introduce healthier lifestyles to the communities and to build relationships with the children and their families. We fueled their curiosity about healthy living and shown how we can make it possible together. There was no greater feeling to see children waiting for us as we arrived to the mobile suite and to greeted us with hugs and smiles. It was a phenomenal experience getting to learn about the conditions of the county to then pitch ideas of improvement in the future.

Florida is getting healthier and stronger each day, especially with the work of Florida Impact to End Hunger. I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to work within a community and to be a part of a groundbreaking movement. This experience also has reassured me to pursue a career in community engagement and contribute to healthier environments.

– Shirbrina Jefferson