Success StorySecond Chances



Second Chances

Author: Cheryl Owens

Planning Unit: Whitley County CES

Major Program: Nutrition and Food Systems General

Outcome: Long-Term Outcome

The primary focus of the Whitley County EFNEP (Expanded Food Nutrition Education Program) Assistant has been on the clientele undergoing rehabilitation. Approximately 90% of this demographic consists of women actively struggling with addiction for an extended period, many of whom are pregnant or have recently given birth. This group is diverse in several ways, notably as they often lead lifestyles not widely accepted by society. Additionally, many of these women are either pregnant or new mothers. It is crucial to support this group as they transition into a sober lifestyle while caring for their children. 

These women require assistance in various aspects of their lives, including learning to function as responsible parents and individuals in recovery. This includes essential skills like budgeting, reacquiring everyday life skills like cooking, practicing food safety, and adopting healthier eating habits. These changes not only benefit the women themselves but also contribute to the well-being of their children, giving them a better chance at a healthier life. Many of these women have grown up in households plagued by substance abuse and have only sought rehabilitation due to factors like incarceration, child neglect, involvement in Drug Court, or simply reaching a point of exhaustion with their former lifestyle. 

Evaluation surveys showed that 100% of participants from the rehabilitation group improved in at least one food group and 52% demonstrated improvements in their overall diet quality. Furthermore, food safety has been a significant concern for this group, with simple concepts like proper meat thawing in the refrigerator initially unfamiliar to many. Pregnant women and small children are at high risk for foodborne illnesses due to weakened immune systems. Foodborne illness in pregnant women can cause serious health concerns for both mother and baby. After the program, evaluation data showed that 81% of participants now use a food thermometer more often, and 78% thaw meat using a recommended method. These clients have been actively participating in the EFNEP (Expanded Food Nutrition Education) Program, attending weekly nutrition classes that span an entire day






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