The problem

Getting youth to consider healthy choices instead of chips and other high fat foods continues to be a struggle.  Obesity in children under 16 is reaching record levels.  Parents,any times don't know what options they have.  With busy lifestyles, healthy meals have become few and far between.  Kids have not experienced a wide variety of available food choices.

The educational program response

To introduce children and their caretakers to a wide variety of readily available healthy and tasty food options, the Bath County Extension Office conducts the power of produce program.  Participants earn farmers market dollars by completing certain activities, which include a physical acitivy, trying a prepared dish and an educational component related to vegetable and other healthy foods.  They can then use these earned dollars to purchase fresh food from the Bath County farmers market vendors for consumption at home.  All family members are encouraged to participate in the program and take snap recipes back home to prepare for the family.  2023 saw 36 different kids participate in at least on session, with most attending at least 3 of the 4 sessions offered.  

The participants/target audience

Youth u der the age of 15 and their parents and caregivers

Other partners (if applicable)

Bath County Farmers Market

Various financial sponsors for the program

Program impact or participant response.

Families are grateful for the program.  Six families have participated in the program every year we have been able to offer it.  Short surveys are collected and responses have been 100% positive for the program.