Author: Ryan Spicer
Planning Unit: Breathitt County CES
Major Program: 4-H Family and Consumer Science Core Curriculum
Plan of Work: Accessing Nutritious Foods in Breathitt County
Outcome: Long-Term Outcome
According to the 5-A-Day program developed and promoted by the USDA, citizens are encouraged to increase fruit and vegetable consumption to 5-9 servings daily. Although community members may understand the importance of consuming more fruits and vegetables, access to these foods can be difficult, especially in Eastern Kentucky. Breathitt County Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development, in partnership with county Extension Agents and staff, Robinson Center for Appalachian Resource Sustainability (RCARS) staff, local farmers and the local Farmer’s Market Board, hosted “Lunch at The Market” events during peak growing seasons. Lunches were prepared using local fruits and vegetables. This effort enabled community members to try new fruits and vegetables and then also allowed them the opportunity to purchase items from growers at the same time/location. For the two “Lunch at the Market” events there was an average of 300 Breathitt County citizens that participated.100% of farmers that participated in these events indicated an increase in sales. Community participants also indicated an increase in knowledge of accessible fruits and vegetables at the local Farmer’s Market. Programs such as “Lunch at The Market” allows Extension Agents an opportunity to educate the community about fruit and vegetable consumption, and accessibility of foods within the local community. “Lunch at the Market” has become a program that Breathitt County residents enjoy and expect.
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