Help in the East Valley for September 21, 2015

As the seasons change, so do our appetites in Central and Southern Arizona. OK, may be not so much as other places across the U.S., but soups, warming meals, and grilled food will be enjoyed as we move into cooler temperatures in the 80's and 90's and not over 100.

The best way to eat responsibly most of the time is by planning meals. Here are a few ideas in the best interests of your good health and your budget.

You know the things your family enjoys. If you want to be really sure, talk to your family. Find out what everybody enjoys most for meal times and snacks. Work out when particular meals are preferred, what day of the week and which mealtime. Make sure your plans include:

1. Dairy
2. 1/2 your plate should be dedicated to fruits and vegetables (fresh or frozen preferred).
3. 1/2 your plate should be dedicated to grains (whole grains preferred) and from a variety of protein sources.

Nothing is perfect and some days no one may seem to be happy. To be your best, do your best. Love yourself and your family enough to get them to participate in meal planning and preparation. Let the process become an activity that is both healthy and fun. Let us know how it works out for you.

Three Farmer's Markets in the East Valley include:

1. IN MESA Mesa Community Market (SNAP and FMNP) 263 N. Center St., Fridays 9 AM - 1 PM email for more information.
2. IN TEMPE Ray's Market - McClintock Fountains 1840 E. Warner Road, Saturdays 9 AM - 1 PM Year Round 602 - 214 - 1653 email for more information.
3. IN GILBERT Agritopia Farm Stand 3000 E. Ray Road, Wednesdays 4 PM - 8 PM and Saturdays 8 AM - 3 PM email for more information. 480 - 988 - 1238

Southwestern Spiced Popcorn 

Enjoy Southwestern Spiced Popcorn during your family's movie nights or snack times. It is easy to prepare. Follow these steps:

1. Wash hands with warm water and soap.
2. Place popcorn in a large bowl and spray with non stick cooking spray. Toss well to coast.
3. In a small bowl, stir together chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and garlic powder.
4. Sprinkle over the popcorn tossing until well coated.
5. Serve immediately or store in an air tight container.

Ingredients include:

• 8 cups air popped popcorn (aboit 1, 2.8 ounce bag plain microwave popcorn
• Nonstick cooking spray
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

If you have more creative recipes for popcorn share them by email.

Kids Health Link connects your family to Health care and Nutrition Assistance.  Is your family insured?  Kids Health Link helps uninsured families apply for and renew Arizona Health Care Cost Containment system (AHCCCS), Arizona's Medicaid coverage. We also help families apply for other health and nutrition services, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Arizona (SNAP AZ), previously called Food Stamps.

Call the Health Hotline at 1 - 800 - 235 - 9678 or visit Kids Health Link or Follow on Facebook

Get one time help once a month at the "Citadel". Salvation Army - Mesa Citadel Family Services.  Food Box Phone 480 - 833 - 8322 Cross Streets Mesa Dr. and 6th St. Hours of Operation Monday - Thursday 8 AM - 11 AM and 1 PM - 3 PM and Fridays 8 AM - 1130 AM. Located at 241 E. 6th St. Bldg 3, Mesa, AZ 85201

For referrals to services in the East Valley call 480 - 464 - 1300 ext 248. 

May God Bless you and keep you, make his face to shine upon you and always give you peace. Amen

Oscar and Bonnie Crawford

Help in the East Valley is a production of Oscar Crawford Christian Media.