Stories from Community Nutrition and Health programs

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  NPI partners with local health departments to support children’s healthy eating and active living through LEAP Awards program

  Local Health Departments are improving their CFHL programs using the Nutrition Policy Institute's LEAP awards. Three hundred thirty-three schools and programs were recognized across California for making strides on health and wellness practices. The Issue Establishing healthy eating and physical activity practices during childhood has become a priority in education and policy. Promoting nutrition and physical activity best practices in school and childcare programs is key to ensuring the next generation of...
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  4-H, Boys and Girls Club, UCCE partner to inspire Orange County kids

  Small containers with varying levels of sugar sit next to a row of beverages, including water, fruit juices, soda, a sports drink and chocolate milk. Trying to match each container with the beverage that contains its corresponding amount of sugar, Amore, a fourth grader, reads the nutrition label on the orange juice bottle. “What does the bottle say?” asked a student in the audience, attempting to help Amore. Life skills such as how to read a nutrition label are representative of learning that youth can expect when joining 4-H,...
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  Nutrition Policy Institute: 10 years of making healthy choices more accessible for all

  Adaptado al español NPI researchers provide influential evidence that shapes federal, state nutrition programs Of the many challenges facing humanity, nothing is more fundamental than securing healthy food and water for all. Life itself would not be possible without nutrients, energy and water – but for many people across the United States, that essential fuel is compromised. “Right now, the average American diet quality has a failing grade,” said Lorrene Ritchie, University of California Cooperative...
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  College students eligible for food assistance deterred by confusing requirements

  Modifying Farm Bill could reduce barriers to SNAP for students and improve nutrition Inadequate access to food can harm college students' health and academic performance. A recent University of California research study in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior investigated why UC students who are eligible for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – the nation's largest food assistance program – do not receive the benefit. “Based on our study findings, eliminating the extra...
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  Homeless people cultivate food, better health while gardening in Alameda County

  Fresh fruits and vegetables are essential to a healthful diet, but it's hard to keep perishable foods on hand if one doesn't have a refrigerator or a home. To enhance the health of homeless people, the CalFresh Healthy Living, UC Cooperative Extension team in Alameda County has partnered with the South County Homeless Project to grow fresh produce for people staying at the emergency housing in Hayward. For the past seven years, CalFresh Healthy Living, UCCE Alameda has been delivering nutrition lessons to residents of the South County...