What is FNP?

The Family Nutrition Program is a program dedicated to teaching and promoting safe and healthy eating for families on a budget. It includes education on basic nutrition, food safety, food budgeting and healthy lifestyles. This program is funded with Food Stamp Administrative funds by the Food and Consumer Service of the U. S. Department of Agriculture.

FNP education programs are available at a variety of locations including schools, after school programs, Extension offices, community centers, senior citizens centers, and food pantry.

How does the program work?

Our staff works with school-age children, after school programs, youth and community gardens and seniors in small groups according to the needs and wants of the participants. Lessons include food demonstrations, simple cooking activities, discussion, games, recipes, and activities so that participants learn to:

• Keep food safe to eat
• Try new foods
• Plan meals to save time and money
• Make wise food choices for nutritional needs
• Prepare healthy meals and snacks
• Increase physical activity
• Improve overall health

Staff Qualification

Vermilion County FNP staff are certified in nutrition education, each with 2 years of service to the program. They include: Cindy Krapf, Judy Mattis, have 2 years of service. Maria Sermersheim, program coordinator has served for 3 years to with program.

Program Highlights from FY 2005

Vermilion Unit office maintains the FNP program whose purpose is to address the needs of limited income families and youth. FNP makes a difference in Vermilion Country.

§ In 2005 1,840 students- per month from K through 5^th grade, participated in a series of nutritional programs.

§ Over 2,500 school age children learned the importance of hand washing.

§ Almost 60 youth participated in the Spring-Summer-Fall Youth garden program.

§ 4 families participated in the Community Garden program.