According to 2019 data from the US Census website, 29% of residents in Breathitt County live in poverty. One way to address this issue is by learning how to meal plan, shop smarter, and how to use leftovers.

Breathitt County SNAP-Ed Assistant, in partnership with Emmanuel Fellowship Church, taught adults the Healthy Choices Curriculum. As a part of these classes, participants learned the importance of meal planning, reading labels, and food safety.

Participants behavior change was indicated by entry and exit forms. 84% of participants showed a positive change in food resource management. One family stated that since beginning the Healthy Choices Curriculum Program, they were able to budget and plan meals for the entire month. The family also stated that they learned how to make better choices and how to properly use leftovers safely.

Implementing the Healthy Choices Curriculum is one way to address poverty. Participants learn meal planning and how to make smart choices while grocery shopping on a budget.