Start Your Healthcare Career This Month: HHA Day Class Begins November 14th!

Between long hours, demanding shifts, and study time, eating well often becomes an afterthought for many caregivers and students. But fueling your body properly can make a huge difference in your energy, focus, and overall health. At Fordham Institute Inc., we encourage our Home Health Aide (HHA) and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) students to see nutrition as part of their self-care. With a little planning, healthy eating doesn’t have to be time-consuming or expensive. Here are some simple meal prep ideas to help you get through busy days strong and nourished. 1. Plan Once, Eat Twice Choose recipes that make enough for two meals. For example: Cook a big batch of brown rice or pasta —use it for lunch one day and dinner the next. Roast a tray of chicken and vegetables that can be added to wraps, salads, or eaten with rice later in the week. Planning ahead saves both time and money. 2. Quick Grab-and-Go Breakfasts Mornings can be chaotic—especially before class or work. Try: Overnight oats with fruit and a drizzle of honey Boiled eggs and whole-grain toast Yogurt with granola and banana slices These quick breakfasts keep you full and focused through the morning. 3. Pack Smart Snacks Avoid the vending machine by keeping healthy snacks nearby. Some great options: Trail mix or nuts Fruit (apples, oranges, or grapes) Peanut butter crackers Granola bars Small snacks keep your energy steady and prevent mid-day crashes. 4. Simple Dinners After Long Shifts After a busy day, no one wants to cook for hours. Keep easy meals ready, like: Soup with whole-grain bread Stir-fry with frozen veggies and rice Tuna salad sandwiches Baked sweet potatoes topped with beans or shredded chicken The key is simplicity—fast, filling, and nutritious. 5. Stay Hydrated Don’t forget to drink water throughout your day! Carry a refillable bottle and add lemon, cucumber, or berries for flavor. Dehydration can cause fatigue and headaches—two things you don’t need when you’re already busy.  Fueling Your Success Healthy eating isn’t about perfection—it’s about preparation. When you nourish your body, you give yourself the strength to handle long shifts, late nights, and all the responsibilities that come with being a caregiver and student. 📞 Ready to start or continue your training? Call 718-480-1804 Because taking care of others starts with taking c are of yourself 💛

Gratitude isn’t just about saying “thank you.” It’s a way of seeing life—focusing on what is still good, even when things are hard. For caregivers, HHAs, CNAs, and students working toward a better future, gratitude can be a powerful tool that brings peace, motivation, and strength. At Fordham Institute Inc., we see how students and healthcare workers sacrifice, study, and care deeply for others. Gratitude doesn’t take away the stress—but it helps you see your purpose more clearly. 1. Gratitude Helps You Stay Grounded During Stress Caregiving can be emotionally and physically demanding. But gratitude reminds you of why your work matters. When you focus on: A client’s smile A lesson you’ve mastered A step closer to your goals …it becomes easier to keep going, even on difficult days. 2. It Shifts Your Mindset from “I Have To” → “I Get To” Instead of saying: “I have to go to class.” Try: “I get to go to class because I’m building a better future.” Instead of: “I have to go to work.” Say: “I get to care for someone who depends on me.” This small shift changes pressure into purpose. 3. Gratitude Strengthens Relationships with Clients and Families Clients feel it when care comes from the heart. Simple actions like: Thanking them for trusting you Listening to their stories Saying, “I’m happy to help” …create warmth, trust, and connection. 4. Practice Gratitude in Small, Simple Ways Here are easy daily habits: Write 3 things you’re grateful for before bed. Say “thank you” out loud—even when you’re alone. Pause during your shift or class and think: There is something good in today. 5. Gratitude Gives You Strength for Tomorrow Gratitude doesn’t mean life is perfect. It means you’re choosing to see the beauty and growth in the middle of your journey. It keeps your heart soft, your mind clear, and your spirit strong. 📞 Interested in becoming an HHA or CNA? Call 718-480-1804 Gratitude doesn’t change the work—but it changes you while you do it 💛