Kitchen Hero Academy

We are wrapping things up for our 5th summer of Kitchen Hero Academy (KHA), which means we are gearing up to start preparation for next summer - year 6! If you’re new to KHA - welcome! I, Dr. Megan Bartley, developed KHA as my occupational therapy doctoral capstone through Boston University in 2021.

Here’s some background: Statistically, Reno County has higher rates of food insecurity than the state and national averages. This is alarming! In hopes of alleviating the long-term negative effects of food insecurity in our community, KHA is a free 10-week summer garden-to-table nutrition program for middle-school students in Hutchinson, KS.

KHA is partnered with Clothed in Compassion, Corp., a non-profit pediatric therapy clinic in Reno County. Over the past several years, we have gained the support of more than 27 community partners and individuals who believe in the mission and vision of KHA, as demonstrated through their financial sponsorships, educational / field trip experiences, and programming support.

The data: Data is collected each summer before and after the program. Our statistical analyses have supported that KHA is effective in: a) increasing healthy food preferences, b) improving food preparation skills, c) improving the ability to make healthy food choices, d) increasing nutritional knowledge, and e) developing skills needed to work as a team among the youth we serve. We have also seen immense growth in compassion and patience, whole body listening, using safe calming strategies, and leadership skill development.