by Lura Lee Landis

Many people never heard of the National Health Care Day of Service, but homeless, expectant women and their children at the Maternity of Mary in Colorado Springs benefited first hand.

The day of service was June 27. The purpose was to focus on health care reform while helping the underserved parts of our population.

There were many projects around the U.S. The nonpartisan group I was with decided that healthy eating was an important factor for those who are homeless or may not have sufficient health care coverage. So we collected donations of healthy foods to give to eight homeless women and their 14 children.

We started with friends and neighbors. Collection boxes were placed at the Colorado Springs Senior Center and the North Carefree Curves. The new Colorado Springs Sunflower Market pitched in with fresh fruits and vegetables.

We called our drive "Donate no Donuts," stressing that we were looking for healthier foods for these women and children. All too often food drives collect nonperishable items solely based on their shelf-life, not on their content. By collecting healthier nonperishables and mixing them with fresh produce, we tried to stress to both the donors and the recipients the importance of making healthy eating choices in their lives. By making healthier choices, there can be a reduction in the incidence of obesity (a national problem) and other resultant disorders, like high blood pressure and diabetes.

Among the donations were cantaloupes, watermelons, carrots, cucumbers, celery, and lettuce from the Sunflower Market; fruit juices, soups, canned chicken, and low-sugar cereal from friends and neighbors; canned fruits and vegetables, almond milk and nuts from Curves; and canned fish, and whole-grain crackers and pasta from the Senior Center.

To keep up on opportunities to be involved in making a difference on a grassroots level, go to http://www.barackobama.com. All political persuasions are welcome.