Taylorville Memorial Hospital, in partnership with the University of Illinois Extension, will offer free cooking classes this fall and winter to promote nutrition education and healthy eating habits. The classes, led by Lisa Peterson, Nutrition & Wellness Educator, will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 22; Monday, Jan. 6; and Thursday, March 20, at TMH.

These workshops aim to address a key need highlighted in the recent Community Health Needs Assessment survey, where Christian County residents expressed a desire for more nutrition education and access to healthy foods.

The classes will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. in Conference Room 179 at Taylorville Memorial Hospital. Topics and dates are as follows:

Oct. 22: Heart-Healthy Soups – Learn techniques for creating flavorful, low-sodium soups to promote heart health.

Jan. 6: Healthy Habits & Fresh Herbs – Explore diet trends and discover how to use indoor-grown herbs in recipes.

March 20: Smart Meals – Gain hands-on experience with budget-friendly meal planning and 5-ingredient recipes.

Extension Educator, Andrew Holsinger, recommends citizens sign up for classes for a healthy and informative time.

Registration is required for each class. For more information, contact Lisa Peterson at 217-532-3941 or email lap5981@illinois.edu.