In Partnership with Arlington EATs and the Arlington Housing Authority
Cook & Thrive
The Partnerships
The NICHE Team is partnering with Arlington EATS and the Arlington Housing Authority (AHA) to implement Cook & Thrive, a community-engaged and -based initiative designed to improve food security, healthy eating, and social connection among residents of Drake Village in Arlington, Massachusetts.
Drake Village, AHA's largest housing community, is home to more than 200 adults. EATS opened the Drake Village Mini Market in early 2026, an on-site extension of the EATS Market pantry that provides Drake residents with convenient access to fresh produce, proteins, dairy products, and pantry staples without having to leave the comfort of their home.
The Program
In addition to Arlington EATS' existing programming, community members receive healthy meal kits designed by Tufts Nutrition graduate students and participate in educational activities and blood pressure readings. Students also develop shelf-talkers that encourage healthier food choices and provide brief, accessible nutrition tips.
Tufts students further support nutrition education by leading biweekly cooking demonstrations in the commercial kitchen at Drake Village, giving residents practical skills and inspiration for preparing healthy meals at home.
Shelf-talker photo by Sarah Stagnone; meal kit photo by Emilie Huber.
