Philadelphia, PA -- On Jan 30th, the Governor’s Advisory Commission on African American Affairs, Pennsylvania Black Maternal Health Caucus, and Vetri Community Partnership hosted a Culinary Medicine cooking demonstration for new mothers in Philadelphia.

“Through our unwavering commitment to maternal health, the Shapiro-Davis administration is proud to partner with communities and healthcare providers across Pennsylvania. Together, we are dedicated to ensuring that every mother, regardless of her background, receives the care and support she deserves. Our collaborative efforts continue to pave the way for healthier futures for all families in our state,” said Dr. Anette Nance, Executive Director of the Governor’s Advisory Commission on African American Affairs.

Vetri Community Partnership is a non-profit organization based in Philadelphia dedicated to enriching lives through the power of food and education. The organization offers nutrition education and cooking classes to over 30,000 people of all ages across Philadelphia and Camden annually. By hosting cooking demonstrations, workshops, and events at their teaching kitchen, they empower children and adults to make nutritious choices and develop vital life skill. By focusing on the nutritional value of different foods and teaching practical cooking skills, it offers a holistic approach to health. Culinary Medicine not only educates individuals on making healthier dietary choices but also transforms these choices into enjoyable and sustainable habits.

“We’re thrilled to have Governor Shapiro’s Advisory Commission on African American Affairs join us in the Teaching Kitchen for a hands-on cooking workshop highlighting the important of cooking and nutrition at every stage of their pregnancy and post-partum period. Creating a space for joy, learning, and community for Black moms is an imperative,” said Maddy Booth, Chief Executive Officer, Vetri Community Partnership.

Pennsylvania Black Maternal Health Caucus (PBMHC) is a dedicated legislative body formed to address the alarming disparities in maternal health experienced by Black families throughout Pennsylvania. Established in 2023 by state representatives Morgan Cephas, Gina H. Curry, and La’Tasha D. Mayes, the Caucus aims to advocate for comprehensive maternal health policies and to introduce strategic legislation aimed at reducing maternal mortality and morbidity rates among Black women.

“Bridging black maternal health and culinary medicine means recognizing that food is not only fuel but a powerful tool for healing, prevention, and empowerment. For Black women, whose maternal health outcomes often reflect deep-rooted systemic inequities, nutrition offers a proactive approach to wellness by integrating culturally relevant, nutrient-dense foods into their care,” said Representative Gina H. Curry, Co-chair of the PA Black Maternal Health Caucus and the Women’s Health Caucus. “It's about providing knowledge of how food can address common health challenges, like hypertension, diabetes, or postpartum recovery, while honoring the rich culinary traditions that nourish the body and spirit. This connection encourages a holistic approach to health that empowers Black mothers to make informed dietary choices, with the understanding that food can be a means of resilience, self-care, and generational healing.”

“As legislators, we are happy to partner with stakeholders to support their important work of building healthy communities while simultaneously working to move common sense policy and legislation to do the same,” said Representative Morgan Cephas, Co-chair of the PA Black Maternal Health Caucus and Chair of the Philadelphia House Delegation.

The Shapiro-Davis Administration is dedicated to advancing maternal health initiatives. In the 2024-2025 bipartisan budget, the Administration secured a $2.6 million increase specifically for maternal mortality prevention. This bipartisan effort underscores their commitment to improving maternal health outcomes. The Administration remains focused on ensuring every mother receives the care and support she deserves.

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