LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — Outside the Consulate of Mexico in Las Vegas Thursday, families lined up not just for help, but for food and a chance to connect.
“Today, we really want the community to come out here and learn more about plant-based eating, learn more that can be related to our culture,” said Victor Flores, executive director of La Planta. “Times are tough right now for a lot of people, so we want to also help with that.”
Studies show Latino families face higher rates of diabetes and heart disease, often linked to diet. So, La Planta, a nonprofit organization from New Mexico partnered with Tacotarian to hand out produce boxes and plant-based tacos. The goal – breaking stereotypes about what healthy food looks like in Latino households.
“Mexican-American communities don’t realize that we can eat a lot healthier and still conserve our culture and our traditions with similar dishes that we eat,” Flores said.
As the owner of Tacotarian, Regina Simmons said she knew she needed to get involved in the project as soon as she heard the mission.
“I’m Mexican, and for me, it’s super important to help my community,” she said. “Just be open-minded, you can use your grandmother’s recipe and just make them plant-based, it’s super easy, Mexican food is so flavorful, you just got to give it a chance.”
The Mexican consulate explained this event wasn’t just about serving up delicious food.
“Food security is very important to us, but also good and healthy habits are also very important to us, so, this is a way to talk about both,” said Patricia Cortez, consul for the Consulate of Mexico in Las Vegas.
Event organizers said they plan on hosting another food distribution event on Sept. 25.
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