Project Independence residents all contribute to meal planning or preparation in their own way. Photo: Michelle Kroll.
We’ve all felt that little nudge towards the lolly aisle during our regular grocery shop.
Making healthy food choices can be tricky, but a group of independent living residents in Canberra have it down pat.
Meals enjoyed at Project Independence homes are tasty, balanced and freely chosen. Every plate is proof that a solid support system goes a long way to good nutrition.
Project Independence is a unique social enterprise helping people with intellectual disabilities experience the sense of pride and security that comes from living in their own home.
The organisation runs three houses in Canberra: Latham, Phillip and Harrison.
Latham house is shared by 10 residents, who each enjoy their own private unit alongside inclusive shared spaces. They are supported by live-in coordinator Vicki, their big sister figure, guiding hand and first point of contact.
A vital connection between residents and their independent lives, Vicki says her role has great meaning.
“I have a wonderful career, very fulfilling. I look after everyone so they get to make their own choices while staying safe and healthy,” she says.
“I’m always there to lend an ear if residents are struggling to solve a problem or just feeling a bit down.
“But they also come to me when they’re excited about a new idea or interest, which I love.”
Part of Vicki’s role is providing residents with opportunities to learn new skills. Meal planning has proven a popular way to do this, and the experience is about more than just cooking.
The entire Latham household gets together once a week to design a menu for nutritious weekday dinners, which residents organise with Vicki’s help. Not everybody cooks, but they all contribute in some way.
As a team, they are learning how to eat for health and happiness.
“The residents lead the conversation, not me,” Vicki says.
“We make sure every resident gets the right nutrition while teaching everyone what good food choices look like.
“We also take time to learn other important skills like negotiating fairly, communication, patience and teamwork.”
Every meal must be balanced and week-to-week variety is important. Residents can organise their own treats, but if a recipe isn’t healthy, it doesn’t belong on the dinner menu.
Operations manager Steven Giorgioni, who works across all Project Independence houses in Canberra, liaises with residents’ families and makes sure live-in coordinators have all the resources they need.
“Meal planning has been a wonderful activity for our houses to participate in,” Steven says.
“Residents enjoy having choice and control over what they are eating each week. Social interaction happens organically as they get involved.
“Our residents learn how to speak up for themselves. They also learn we don’t always get what we want and how important it is to respect others’ right to choose.”
Steven says these skills will help residents continue living independently if they move away from their Project Independence house.
“They also show residents’ families what their loved ones are capable of, which is sometimes more than mum, dad or carers realise,” he says.
“Our residents have the same rights to freedom, choice and autonomy – they are just like us. That doesn’t go away just because you have a disability.”
For more information, visit Project Independence.
