Penn State Cooperative Extension would like to bring back a program that will help low-income families learn how to buy and prepare healthy food on a budget.
"With people losing their jobs and an increase in the people using food banks, there is more interest in preparing meals economically and from scratch," Sharon McDonald, nutrition, health and food safety educator at the Cooperative Extension, said.
On Feb. 17, the Cooperative Extension will host an informational meeting on the Super Cupboards program for agencies and individuals who want to find out more about it, and possibly be involved.
"What we're looking for is collaboration to provide a facility (to host the program) or donate food or dollars, help with printing costs, those kinds of things," McDonald said.
She added that, with agencies facing budget cuts, it makes sense to work together on the program.
Judy Wahl, nutrition education adviser at the Cooperative Extension who works with Penn State Nutrition Links, said "We had done one in 1997 or 1998 and it involved nutrition, an education component, hands-on cooking skills, a workshop, parenting skills and resource management."
She said the new sessions could also address changes in the state WIC program and other changes.
McDonald said the program will address nutrition, budgeting food dollars wisely, how to plan a healthy meal using the food pyramid as a guide, the importance of family meals, getting kids involved in cooking and food safety.
About 20 people would participate in the five-week, 3 1/2 hour per week program, McDonald said. The program could be repeated in areas throughout the county.
