For many youth, making healthy food choices is a lesson learned over time by watching their loved ones shop for groceries, cook meals, and make selections when dining out. But for some, learning to make good decisions in the grocery store and at the table doesn’t come so naturally.

Through programs like the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Education Program (SNAP-Ed), OSU Extension, Franklin County is helping teach individuals about the importance of nutrition, food preparation, and food safety through hands-on activities.

For example, OSU Extension, Franklin County EFNEP program assistant Cara Gorman recently worked with teenage girls in the foster care system from the Women of Opportunity (WOO) Wellness Center. Cara hosted a five-week Eating Smart, Being Active series that culminated in a tour of a local Kroger grocery store where the teens were able to put their new knowledge into practice – managing a food budget, checking nutrition labels, and comparing prices. “A few of them even decided to team up to make a few healthy meals for their house,” said Cara. “It was fun to see them plan the menu and shop together."

To learn more about our EFENP programs, click here or contact OSU Extension, Franklin County FCS Educator Marilyn Rabe.