The Pike County Cooperative Extension Service Expanded Food and Nutrition Education program (EFNEP) and the Goodwill Rise Program teamed up to provide healthy eating and lifestyle education so clients can make better nutritional and physical activity choices.

Using the ”Healthy Choices for Every Body” curriculum, the EFENP Assistant taught the MyPlate food/meal plan; the importance of limiting fat, sugar, and sodium in the diet: how to read a label; menu planning; preparing healthier foods on a budget;  and the importance of food safety.

Twenty-two (22) participants enrolled into the program with 100 % graduating. Seventy-six percent (76%) showed improvement in nutrition practices, such as checking “Nutrition Facts” on labels and preparing breakfast for their children more often. Eighty percent (80%) showed improvement in food resource management practices, such as not running out of food before the end of the month and planning meals in advance. Sixty-eight percent (68%) showed improvement in physical activity. Seventy-four percent (74%) showed improvement in food safety practices, such as not allowing food to thaw at room temperature and refrigerating food within a safe time.

When asked to share their experiences, clients wrote, “I now have confidence that I can make a grocery list, read labels and budget my spending so my family can eat healthier and feel better. “ Another client stated, “I learned how to properly cut vegetables, and how important it is to properly thaw your food.”