Describe the Issue or Situation.

 In the current societal context, occurrences of adolescent pregnancy and individuals hailing from low-income households have grown increasingly prevalent. This pattern is notably evident within the residents of Spencer County. During the current year, the agents of Spencer County Family and Consumer Sciences and 4-H/Youth Development, in collaboration with the Family Resource & Youth Service Centers and other community partners, coordinated the Spencer County Community Baby Shower. Notably, the Family and Consumer Science agent compiled an information nutrition packet at the event to help strengthen the well-being of expectant mothers and their infants. Our Spencer County Homemakers also participated in providing each participant with a homemade blanket as a community welcome gift for each family. 

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable).

   The program targets prospective parents or those with children up to 12 months old, as well as mothers and fathers from low-income households, providing them with the opportunity to engage with individuals and organizations offering essential guidance on child-rearing. This encompasses education on childbirth, pediatrics, breastfeeding, basic nutrition, insurance, preschool, and various other pertinent topics. 

   Given that this event was conducted for the fourth time as an outdoor drive-thru initiative, it was once again hosted in the Extension Office’s parking lot, allowing community partners to establish their booths and enabling each participant to receive requisite items. The Extension Office operated a booth dispensing nutritional information, wholesome recipes, and SNAP education products, in addition to addressing inquiries related to nurturing families and life skills. Each family proceeded to various stations, receiving an assortment of items to aid in infant care, including car seats, diapers, apparel, and monitors valued at over $4,000. 

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience.

   A total of 28 parents or expecting a child or have a child under 1 year old participated in this drive-thru program.

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact. Please note that the outcomes statement must use evaluation data to describe the change(s) that occurred in individuals, groups, families, businesses, or in the community because of the program/outreach.

   As a result of this program, both young individuals and adults have been educated on fundamental nutrition and sound choices for infants. They are now equipped to apply this knowledge in the proper care of their growing families, while also being able to impart this knowledge to others.