Breaking the vicious cycle of poverty and poor health is a challenge, especially when incarcerated. There are several contributing factors to these issues. The lack of nutrition education is one of the factors.

To slow the cycle, the Meade County Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program Assistant partnered with the Meade County Detention Center and conducted a seven-week Healthy Choices for Every Body Program.  During the series of classes, seven female inmates learned about nutrition, food safety, meal planning, food budgeting and the importance of physical activity. At each session basic kitchen skills were taught as a healthy recipe was prepared. The participants enjoyed sampling the recipe each week.

By the end of the program, almost all (94%) improved their food resource management knowledge. While they are incarcerated it is hard to control their food intake, but 82% have improved their diet quality by eating the fruits and vegetables when they are offered. Before this program 100% of the participants thawed their proteins on the counter, they now understand the food safety dangers of that practice. They are all excited to put their new skills and knowledge to use when they are released.