EFNEP Makes a Difference
The Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) is a free program for low-income families and youth where participants learn how to make healthier food choices while spending less money. Trained educators from UMass Extension’s Nutrition Education Program (NEP) provide a series of lessons that help with the challenges faced by low-income families, teaching valuable nutrition information and building life skills that make a real difference.
Working together makes a real difference for the clients we serve.
In FY25, we reached 705 adult participants, with a total reach of 2,708 family members. Results from adults after participation:
- 98% improved their nutrition practices
- 90% Improved their food resource management practices
- 78% improved their food safety practices
- 74% improved in one or more physical activity behaviors
- 44% ate more fruits
- 43% ate more vegetables
In FY25, we reached 1,564 youth. Results from youth after participation:
- 77% improved their diet quality
- 50% improved their physical activity behaviors
- 44% improved their food safety behaviors
Lesson topics are chosen to meet the needs of the participants, such as:
- Using strategies to make the most of your food dollars
- Becoming more physically active
- Eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Choosing foods lower in saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars
- Keeping your food safe
- Making healthier food choices when eating out
- Helping your child eat healthier foods
- Nurturing a healthy lifestyle for yourself
EFNEP nutrition lessons are interactive and often include a cooking demonstration and a physical activity. Lesson materials are available in English and Spanish, with an additional version designed especially for English language learners. Participants are encouraged to try new foods and practice new skills. Upon completion of the series, each participant receives a certificate of completion during a special graduation celebration.
EFNEP has a proven record of accomplishment for changing the lives of those who have graduated from our program.
“This program has helped me to be more mindful of what I'm eating and to try to make healthier choices. It has opened my eyes to the amount of calories, fat, and sodium in fast food.” (Mom of two children)
"I am trying new recipes with less expensive ingredients" (Mom in a teen parenting program)
"The biggest change I have made is my size and portions of food. Also, I’m checking the sugars in cereal and sodium levels because of my heart.”
(Mom of an 8-year-old)