Poverty and poor health are a challenge, especially when incarcerated. There are several reasons for these issues. The lack of nutrition education is one.

To educate the inmates, the Meade County Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program Assistant partnered with the Meade County Detention Center and conducted a six-week Healthy Choices for Every Body Program.  During the series of classes, fourteen male 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 sampled a recipe each week and enjoyed snacking on the fruit the assistant provided.

By the end of the program, 79% improved their food resource management knowledge. While they are incarcerated it is hard to control their food intake, but 57% have improved their diet quality by eating the vegetables when they are offered. Before this program the participants were not aware of the dangers of foodborne illness, they now understand how important food safety is. With their new knowledge they are excited to put their new skills and knowledge to use when they are released.