Nutrition Outreach Program
The Family Nutrition Program (FNP) focuses on food, nutrition, and physical activity behaviors of limited-resource families, youths, and adults. Two trained Nutrition Outreach Instructors conduct interactive lessons to improve healthy eating behaviors, expand food safety practices, effectively manage food dollars, and increase physical activity. (Studies on similar programs report that every $1 spent on nutrition and health education saves long-term health care costs of between $3.63 and $10.64.) FNP is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Youth Nutrition Outreach Instructor
Cassie Vandevander is based in Grant County and works with youth in grades 3 to 5 in both Grant and Hardy Counties. She teaches lessons promoting nutrition and physical activity in schools in which 50% of the students are eligible for free and reduced-price lunch. Her classes include lessons in nutrition, preparation of healthy snacks, and physical activity. She also conducts summer day camps and works with existing summer camps to teach nutrition topics.
Adult Nutrition Outreach Instructor
Vicki Jones-Fertig is based in Hardy County and works with adults in both counties. The program focus is low-income adults. She works with agencies and community organizations to conduct group classes that are free to participants and include recipes, “tasting parties,” and free ingredients so participants can try recipes at home. Because of limited budgets, she welcomes donations from community groups and individuals.
