With the opening of the Barrio Nuevo Clinic in 2017, Naco Wellness Initiative could really, truly offer cooking classes. One wall of the giant room is a full-size, shiny industrial-grade kitchen behind a long sit-down bar. Most days, the space is in use, with Naco’s two volunteer nutritionists or the Promotoras teaching cooking to eager residents. A red and white diner-themed mural created by Promotora Irasema “Chari” Loreto enhances the décor.

Lessons include how to make tortillas healthier, how beans and rice can become a protein source, how to add more vegetables to any dish, and how to make vegetables taste delicious. There are classes for children and adults. Children who first meet the Promotoras when they teach gardening and nutrition in the local schools receive easy, affordable recipes to share with their parents.