Identifier

etd-11092009-162025

Degree

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Human Resource Education and Workforce Development

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) is essential in providing eligible households with the right tools to adopt healthy eating and active lifestyle practices which are consistent with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and MyPyramid. Education in the OFS, where SNAP eligibility is assessed, is one means to preventing adversities which those in poverty often face. Out of concern for the lack of nutrition education being conducted in the OFS, along with the many distractions limiting clients’ ability to absorb and retain educational messages, the Food Stamp Office Resource Kit (FSORK) was developed. The FSORK includes a 20 minute video covering a vast range of nutrition topics, along with an informational kiosk including bilingual recipe cards and brochures. The primary purpose of this study was to determine if visitors to the OFS would be influenced by educational videos and printed materials to select, purchase, prepare and consume healthier foods. A total of 32 clients’ interactions with the materials were observed in two OFS locations. Additionally, a total of 30 patrons were interviewed upon exiting the office. The FSORK is a potentially effective tool for SNAP-Ed. The environment of the OFS plays a significant roll in the successful delivery of the education. Extremely large offices may not find this tool as useful, but the kit could still be utilized by implementing multiple videos or by expecting weaker results. Future changes to OFS assessments such as moving towards interviewing applicants over the phone warrant exploration of innovative nutrition education delivery methods.

Date

2009

Document Availability at the Time of Submission

Release the entire work immediately for access worldwide.

Committee Chair

Machtmes, Krisanna

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_theses.2785

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