Center for Community Engagement

With a large population of their community facing diet-related illnesses, a non-profit organization in Pacoima, California, Meet Each Need with Dignity (MEND), attempts to alleviate the stressors of diabetes on these individuals through their educational programs. While their Diabetes Health Education seems to address the physical health component of diabetes, thisresearch was conducted to explore how MEND is addressing the psychological component to this disease. As MEND’s clients fall under the governmental poverty line, affecting their access to healthcare, MEND serves as a source of relief and hope for individuals facing hardship. Thisposition of opportunity MEND holds to leave a sustainable impact on these individuals is endless and should be utilized to create positive changes within these individuals.