In 2017, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute released test results indicating a high number of chronic diseases and deaths linked to poor diet choices.  They concluded that in 2012, 45% of deaths that were determined to be from heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes were all associated with poor nutrition habits.   Recognizing this issue, the Leslie County Cooperative Extension Office’s SNAP-Ed (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education) program assistant partnered with the Stinnett Area Community Center to offer a weekly program to high-risk residents of this community.   The program provided nutrition education that centered on eating a healthy diet and promoted physical activity.   

There were eleven females, with ages ranging from middle-age to seniors, who participated in the eleven week program.  The initial outcomes at the end of the program were adequate, however, the participants expressed a strong desire to continue this path toward a healthy lifestyle.   The SNAP-Ed program assistant conducted a follow-up assessment several months later and the data collected showed a 100% improvement in diet quality and a 91% improvement in physical activity across the board.  One participant, who suffered from type 2 diabetes, said, “When I began this program my sugar levels were off the charts.  I decided to take control of my health and through medication, diet, and physical activity my numbers have come down.  I feel better now and I am more active.”