The UMass Extension Nutrition Education Program (NEP) provides families with the knowledge and skills for healthier eating through research-based nutrition education that makes a real difference. The Amherst NEP office does not provide nutrition education programming in communities, but administers the following statewide programs:
Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP)
EFNEP provides practical, skill-based nutrition education to low-income families with young children and to youth up to age 18 from these families. Adults participate in a series of small group sessions led by an EFNEP educator from their communities. The award-winning curriculum Choices: Steps Toward Health emphasizes nutrition, food shopping, and food safety while engaging participants in group discussions, cooking demonstrations, food tasting, fun physical activities, and other hands-on learning. Cost effectiveness studies in a number of states have shown that for every dollar spent on EFNEP, $3 to $10 were saved on lower health care costs and increased productivity. EFNEP youth participate in a series of group sessions, learning about healthy food and beverage choices, food preparation, food safety and fitness/physical activities. EFNEP programming is based out of our offices in Lawrence, Raynham, Springfield, and Worcester.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed)
SNAP-Ed provides a variety of nutrition education programs and resources for adults and youth who receive or are eligible for SNAP benefits. SNAP-Ed’s mission is to help SNAP participants make healthy food choices and choose active lifestyles within a limited budget. Programs are planned annually with the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA), community agencies, and schools throughout the Commonwealth. SNAP-Ed activities include nutrition education workshops; nutrition lessons and follow-up activities in schools; food demonstrations at farmers’ markets; interactive displays; a website and blog providing healthy recipes, shopping tips, and meal planning ideas; and a toll-free telephone tips line. Print materials include various newsletters for teachers, parents, caregivers, and children as well as colorful posters promoting fresh fruits and vegetables. SNAP-Ed programming is based out of our offices in Barnstable, Boston, Lawrence, Raynham, Springfield, and Worcester.
For more information about EFNEP or SNAP-Ed contact:
Lacresha Bowers, MS, RDN, LD
Nutrition Education Program Director
lacresha[dot]bowers[at]umass[dot]edu (lacresha[dot]bowers[at]umass[dot]edu)