Celebrating Healthcare Food Services Week

October 6th–12th marks Healthcare Food Services Week, a time to recognize the vital role that food service professionals play in the health, wellbeing, and daily lives of seniors. At The Neighbors of Dunn County in Menomonie, WI, our kitchen staff goes above and beyond to provide delicious, nutritious meals and support for a wide range of dining needs.

From Our Kitchen to Yours

Our culinary team is dedicated to preparing meals that are not only healthy but also enjoyable for everyone. From daily meals for our residents to community programs like Meals on Wheels, our staff ensures that nutrition and flavor go hand in hand.

One of the standout recipes shared by our team is Calico Baked Beans, a hearty dish perfect for fall gatherings. Made with a blend of bacon, ground beef, onions, and spices, it’s a favorite for its balanced flavors and wholesome ingredients. The dish can be baked in the oven for an hour or prepared in a slow cooker for 2–3 hours, making it both convenient and satisfying.

To celebrate this week, we’re sharing one of our favorite fall recipes from our kitchen: Calico Baked Beans. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy meal at home.

Calico Baked Beans Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. bacon, cut into pieces
• 1 lb. lean ground beef
• 1 cup chopped onions, partially cooked
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. dry mustard
• 2 tsp. vinegar
• ½ cup ketchup
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 (3 lb.) can baked beans, drained
• 1 (15 oz.) can kidney beans, drained
• 1 (15 oz.) can butter beans, drained
• 1 (15 oz.) can lima beans, drained

Instructions:

• Partially fry and drain the bacon, then remove from the pan.
• Brown the ground beef, add the onions, and drain any excess moisture.
• Stir in salt, dry mustard, vinegar, ketchup, and brown sugar. Return the bacon to the pan and mix well.
• Combine all the beans with the meat mixture in the pan.
• Bake at 350°F for 1 hour. (Optional: bake in a slow cooker on low for 2–3 hours.)

This recipe combines protein, fiber, and rich flavors, making it both hearty and nutritious—a great example of the types of meals our kitchen team prepares daily.

Supporting Health and Wellness Through Food

Nutrition is a cornerstone of senior health, and our kitchen team ensures that every meal supports physical wellbeing. They carefully prepare seasonal menus to include nutrient-rich options, balancing protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Healthy eating not only supports strength and energy but also contributes to overall health, immunity, and quality of life.

Beyond Daily Meals

The work of our food services team extends beyond standard meals. They assist with:

• Preparing special meals for holidays, parties, and family events
• Baking and cooking for group activities and outings
• Providing treats and snacks for happy hours and community gatherings
• Supporting Meals on Wheels participants in the community, delivering meals that keep seniors nourished and connected

This wide range of services ensures that every dining experience, whether in our facility or at home, is enjoyable and supportive of seniors’ nutritional needs.

Expertise And Experience In Every Meal

With over 90 years of combined experience, our food services staff brings expertise, care, and consistency to every meal prepared. Their knowledge of nutrition, meal planning, and food safety ensures that every dish meets high standards for both taste and health.

During Healthcare Food Services Week, we celebrate this dedication and highlight the essential contributions our culinary team makes to the daily lives of residents and the broader community. Their work is fundamental to supporting the wellbeing, happiness, and comfort of everyone we serve.

How You Can Celebrate

Healthcare Food Services Week is also a great time to appreciate the meals we often take for granted. Whether it’s trying a new healthy recipe at home, volunteering with a meal program, or simply thanking the food service professionals you encounter, recognizing their role in promoting health and nutrition makes a big difference.

At The Neighbors of Dunn County, we encourage everyone to take a moment during this week to reflect on the impact of quality meals and dedicated kitchen staff. Every carefully prepared dish, every delivery, and every special meal contributes to a healthier, happier community.

Conclusion

From daily meals to special events, our food services team plays a vital role in supporting nutrition, wellness, and community engagement. Healthcare Food Services Week is the perfect opportunity to recognize their dedication, celebrate their expertise, and appreciate the ways they enhance daily life for seniors in Menomonie, WI.

If you’re interested in learning more about The Neighbors of Dunn County and the services we offer for seniors, contact us to see how we support health, wellness, and quality of life in our community.