Instituto Familiar de la Raza is proud to celebrate an important milestone for our community. Nuestras Raíces Saludables, a collective project led by the Indígena Health & Wellness program, is now available in both Spanish and English at every branch of the San Francisco Public Library, expanding access to culturally grounded wellness resources for families across the city.
The announcement was shared during a community panel held on Sunday, January 25, at the San Francisco Main Library, where staff, participants, and community members gathered to reflect on the meaning and impact of the book. Developed through the voices and contributions of 11 community participants, Nuestras Raíces Saludables is more than a collection of recipes. It is a book of stories that honors traditions, celebrates cultural identity, and shares healthier adaptations of traditional foods without losing their meaning or flavor.
By bringing together personal narratives and community knowledge, the book opens conversations about prevention, wellness, and the connection between culture, food, and emotional well-being. For many families, seeing their languages, histories, and traditions represented in public spaces carries deep significance. As participant Leydi Lavadores shared, “Qué bonito va a ser poder llevar a los niños a la biblioteca y ver este libro.” Her words reflect the pride and sense of belonging that this milestone represents for many in our community.
This achievement is especially meaningful given the limited availability of Spanish-language materials that promote wellness through a cultural lens. Making the book accessible throughout the San Francisco Public Library system ensures that more families can connect with these stories, learn from them, and bring these traditions into their homes.
Instituto Familiar de la Raza remains committed to continuing this work by engaging community voices, preserving cultural knowledge, and promoting healthier lives for future generations. We invite community members to explore the book at their local library or access it online here, and to join us in celebrating the power of culture in our health and wellness.
