The tuskegee university expanded food and nutrition education program (TU-EFNEP) addresses critical food insecurity and nutrition-related health disparities in alabama, particularly among low-income…

The U.S. Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture awarded Tuskegee University $118,180 under the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (CFDA 10.514) on October 1, 2025, for a five-year performance period through September 30, 2030.

The Tuskegee University Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (TU-EFNEP) delivers nutrition education to low-income families, youth, and young adults in Alabama, with particular focus on populations experiencing food insecurity and nutrition-related health disparities. The program trains paraprofessionals from the indigenous target population to deliver direct education to families with young children (K-12), youth, and young adults with limited financial resources. The curriculum covers four core areas: diet quality and physical activity; food resource management including budgeting, meal planning, and food procurement; food safety and sanitation; and food and nutrition security with links to assistance programs. Participants complete pre- and post-assessments and 24-hour food recalls; data analysis through WebNEERS evaluates outcomes related to food and nutrition security and healthy lifestyles. The program fosters community collaboration, strengthens university capacity, and increases cross-organizational referrals to address participant needs.

Work is performed in Tuskegee, Alabama. Tuskegee University is a historically Black land-grant institution and eligible 1890 land-grant recipient under the EFNEP program framework.

The tuskegee university expanded food and nutrition education program (TU-EFNEP) addresses critical food insecurity and nutrition-related health disparities in alabama, particularly among low-income and minority populations. With alabama's child poverty rate exceeding 22%, TU-EFNEP targets low income communities through culturally relevant, science-based nutrition education. TU-EFNEP trains paraprofessionals from the 'indigenous target population' to deliver direct education to families with young children (K-12), youth, and young adults with limited financial resources. The main objectives are to reduce hunger, and improve health outcomes by providing nutrition education, promoting food security, and supporting american agriculture through strategic partnerships. Approved science and evidence based curriculum used focuses on four core areas: diet quality & physical activity - encouraging healthier eating and increased physical activity. Food resource management - teaching budgeting, meal planning, and food procurement. Food safety - promoting safe food handling and sanitation practices. Food & nutrition security - enhancing access to nutritious food and food assistance programs. Participants will complete pre- and post-assessments, and 24-hour food recalls. Analysis of data from these assessments is through webneers to evaluate expected outcomes of food and nutrition secured youth and families leading healthy life styles. TU-EFNEP fosters community collaboration, strengthens university capacity, and increases referrals across organizations to address participant needs.