Support for women in health crisis

In Lille, the Ikambere association has created a program to help women dealing with obesity, diabetes, or hypertension who are in difficult living situations. The initiative offers free weekly activities such as adapted physical exercise, nutrition education, cooking classes, and shared meals.

Focus on health and environment

The program addresses the "obesogenic" environment, a term referring to surroundings that encourage unhealthy eating and sedentary lifestyles. This environment is largely shaped by the agro-food industry, which makes ultra-processed foods widely available and inexpensive, increasing the risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

Physical activity and health benefits

The physical activity sessions include exercises like ab workouts, core strengthening, and glute training, which are beneficial for managing the three conditions. Alicia Gens, a health mediator at Ikambere, explains that these exercises improve heart health, circulation, and blood pressure.

Innovative meal planning

The meals provided are designed to reduce food waste, using fresh ingredients purchased at discounted prices from a social and solidarity economy company. Ingredients are creatively used, such as carrot tops turned into pesto and shrimp heads used in broth, to maximize nutrition and minimize waste.

Empowering through knowledge

Participants like Jasmine Gashumo, a refugee from Rwanda, have learned about the nutritional benefits of foods like manioc and how to use them to manage diabetes. The association has also published a cookbook co-written with the women, featuring healthy recipes from around the world.

Community and accessibility

The facility is located near a popular market in the Wazemmes neighborhood, making it accessible to the local community. Many participants are homeless or live in emergency shelters, often unable to afford fresh food. The program provides balanced meals and health education, even when applying the advice is difficult.

Building a support network

The association emphasizes the importance of community support, with participants sharing experiences and advice. Health sessions include interactive elements like card games that teach about hypertension risks and discussions on managing stress, another risk factor. The goal is to empower women to take control of their health despite challenging circumstances.