Sheila Jones

Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Sheila Louis Jones is a lifelong resident whose family moved from Virginia nearly 70 years ago when her father was stationed at Andrews Air Force Base. Sheila spoke about growing up in Capitol Hill and later in public housing, where she said she learned a lot and had fun forming strong community bonds through sports and social activities. The interview took place at Saints Paradise Church in DC where Sheila discussed the importance of food in her community, including programs like Produce Plus and the role they play in connection and nourishment. She also shared memories of her mother’s homemade banana pudding and stories of her husband, a military cook, who loved preparing meals. Sheila described how food is part of her healing journey, including her current participation in a green-food cleanse inspired by the members of her dance community.