Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
It was observed that many participants in the EFNEP program lacked basic cooking skills. Additionally there was a lack of knowledge when it came to preparing fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

Response:
With grant dollars from Helen LeBaron Hilton, Meals to Go was piloted. Meals to Go consisted of enrolled EFNEP families receiving an insulated bag with ingredients to make two EFNEP recipes for their family during their weekly group EFNEP class. Participants took the bag home, prepared and served the meal, completed the evaluation and returned the bag at the next EFNEP class. Bags were given at weeks 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. 35 insulated red bags were purchased and a UNI college intern began working on the project. The student intern shopped for the ingredients, packed the bags, delivered them to the group classes and kept records. For the pilot, 25 families participated in Meals to Go. No bag was given at the first or last class. Participants received recipes and ingredients to make two EFNEP recipes in the insulated bags. Directions and comment forms were included with the bag. Bags and completed evaluations were returned at the next class in exchange for the next Meal to Go bag.

Impact:
Eighteen of the 25 participating families completed EFNEP, for a 72% graduation rate. The Black Hawk County EFNEP unit graduation rate last year was 61%. At the end of the pilot, 24 bags had been returned for continued use. Participants looked forward to what was in the next bag and the evaluation cards indicate the families were preparing the meals. One woman was surprised that her family liked the meal and indicated she will make it again. Other comments included: It was a good meal and I would like to have it again someday. Everyone liked it. They were excellent. I never thought it would be that good. The kids really enjoyed it. It was delicious and easy to clean up. It was delicious and a meal I never would have thought of. It was good-I will prepare it again as a meal. It was really good and fast. This dish didn't last very long! Fruit salad was delicious. Everyone enjoyed the rice and there was a little left over for my lunch the next day. We all liked the spanish macaroni.

Additional Team Members/Community Partners:
Megan Brommel, Student Intern

Contact:
Jill Weber
Black Hawk County Extension
3420 University Ave., Ste B
Waterloo, IA 50701-6811
319-234-6811
jrweber@iastate.edu