The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) works to boost the diets of low-income Americans over the age of 60 by providing regular access to nutritious foods.
The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) provides similar help to Americans of all ages.
With grand funding for these programs through the Indiana State Department of Health, registered dieticians and experienced nutritionists from the Marion County Public Health Department’s Nutrition Services provide on-site nutrition education at several food distribution sites around the county.
Nutrition Services began working with the sites in October 2015 and the contract was renewed for a second year after showing great results.
“We have a recipe of the month, so we look at what they’re receiving in their food box and we create low-cost tasty recipes using those items,” said Denise Ferguson, program administrator for Nutrition Service. “(Participants) come by and do taste-testing during pickup and get recipes. We also have additional educational materials dealing with chronic diseases like diabetes or high blood pressure.”
According to Ferguson, the food items provided – which are mostly non-perishable – are not appetizing to all who participate. Nutrition Service staff work together and flex their creative muscles to create tasty and nutritious meals.
She said one of the reasons why they received a second year of funding was that the state department of health was “thrilled that we were able to come up with tasty recipes for canned beef and canned pork, which might not always taste great to everyone.”
Staff dieticians and nutritionists can see the results of their work, as participants in both programs get excited to cook and realize the full benefits of what they learn.
“Our numbers are really going up,” said Ferguson. “It’s not a requirement that they see us if they’re there.”
When the program started, she estimates that about 150 people a month took advantage of the nutrition and cooking education.
“Now, we’re seeing about 1,000 people a month come to our table. They’re thrilled to be getting recipes and they’re excited to learn how to use these products,” Ferguson added.
As a benefit, participants aren’t wasting food or throwing away the products – which was an issue.
Nutrition Services also received two smaller grants from Walmart to buy electric skillets, slow cookers and other kitchen items such as cooking spoons as giveaways to those who visit the table for education and taste-testing.
To learn more about this program, contact the Marion County Public Health Department Nutrition Service at 317-221-2646.
For more information about the Commodity Supplemental Food Program or The Emergency Food Assistance Program, visit www.USDA.gov.
ABCs of Diabetes Classes in April
ABCs of Diabetes is a free four-part diabetes self-management series offered monthly, January through November, by the Marion County Public Health Department.
The series includes instruction on medications, nutrition, exercise, monitoring, complications, and available community resources. Class members participate in individual consultations with a registered dietitian and a registered nurse.
In April, classes will take place at the Nora Branch Library, 8625 Guilford Ave., on Thursday, April 6, 13, 20 and 27 from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Participants should plan to attend all four classes of the session.
ABCs of Diabetes is free, but advance registration is required. For more information or to register, please call 317-221-2094 or visit MarionHealth.org/diabetes.
