The Community Nutrition, Health and Food Systems program delivers applied research and extension focused on improving nutrition security, health equity, and food systems in the East Bay. Serving the SF East Bay, the program collaborates with community partners to identify priority needs and implement evidence-based strategies to support healthy, resilient communities. It includes academic oversight and coordination of CalFresh Healthy Living, UCCE and EFNEP programs, integrating direct education with policy, systems, and environmental approaches.
The program prioritizes engagement with residents of disadvantaged communities and the organizations that serve them, aligning with UC ANR’s values of promoting health equity and inclusive development. Key partners include urban agriculture groups, public health departments, school food programs, food banks, and other community-based organizations focused on nutrition and environmental justice. The program also works in close coordination with UC ANR colleagues, the Nutrition Policy Institute, and statewide volunteer networks to expand its reach and impact.
The program is led by Alexa Erickson and covers Contra Costa and Alameda Counties.
Read her article on Building Resilience in Oakland’s School Gardens.
| Learn more about Alexa Erickson |
| Bio and Contact |
| Curriculum Vitae |
Calfresh Healthy Living, UCCE provides nutrition education and outreach services
The program educates community members on improving diet quality, increasing physical activity, assuring safe food-handling, and strengthening food resource management skills, supporting families to make meaningful, healthy lifestyle changes.