Intern David Hamwi Teaches Healthy Habits to Support Stronger Milwaukee Neighborhoods

Beyond our role as Milwaukee’s only Free & Local food bank, Hunger Task Force also empowers Milwaukee with the knowledge and confidence to make healthy choices. Hunger Task Force operates a robust nutrition education program that teaches students, parents, older adults and the broader community about healthy eating, culturally responsive foods, cooking, gardening, shopping on a budget and physical wellness.

For the past several months, Hunger Task Force has had the opportunity to host David Hamwi as an intern directly supporting Community Nutrition Education efforts. David is currently pursuing a graduate degree in Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, working toward his goal of becoming a Registered Dietitian. He previously earned his undergraduate degree in Kinesiology from UWM, which gave him a strong understanding of movement and preventive health.

During his fall internship, David worked directly in community spaces across the city. He supported hands-on classes for older adults, families and vulnerable populations. He assisted with cooking demonstrations and learned how to tailor education and nutrition materials for people managing chronic conditions or navigating limited food access. Through this work, he saw how practical nutrition guidance can reduce risk for diet-related disease and help people feel more confident preparing healthy meals with the foods available to them.

“This experience has given me valuable hands-on experience on how nutrition programs and food access make a real difference in the community,” shares David. “My time at Hunger Task Force has strengthened my commitment to promoting health equity and ensuring that everyone has access to healthy foods which are values that I will carry with me for the rest of my career.

David drew deeply from the experience of the Community Nutrition Education team, learning how Hunger Task Force provides accessible and culturally responsive education for diverse audiences. His academic insight into movement, metabolism and preventive care added strength to class content and will continue to shape programming long after his internship has ended.

Reflecting on his contributions, Community Nutrition Manager Carmen Baldwin shared, “David arrived eager to support our Free & Local mission to feed our neighbors and educate them at the same time. He showed real commitment to learning from the community and brought thoughtful energy to every project.”

We are thankful for David’s time, talent and dedication. Hunger Task Force appreciates the meaningful contributions he made to our nutrition education work and our mission to nourish and educate Milwaukee families.

Hunger Task Force is Milwaukee’s Free & Local food bank and Wisconsin’s anti-hunger leader. The organization’s core values are Dignity, Justice, Equity, Compassion and Stewardship. Hunger Task Force feeds people today by providing healthy and culturally appropriate food to hungry children, families and seniors in the community absolutely free of charge. Hunger Task Force also works to end future hunger by advocating for strong public policies and nutrition programs at the local, state and federal level.