Study of food stamp nutrition education through integrated video and printed materials delivered in California food stamp offices

The California Department of Health Services' Nutrition Network (CDHS Network) is the country's largest Food Stamp Nutrition Education (FSNE) program. Network messages promote improved consumption of fruit and vegetables, increased physical activity, and reduced food insecurity to low-income families. Need was recognized for more linkage between FSNE from the Network's 120+ local programs and clients waiting in local FS offices. Development of the Food Stamp Office Resource Kit (FSORK) was a collaboration of Network, the California Department of Social Services FS Program, and the Western Regional Office of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service, with input from the California Welfare Directors Association. Panel reviews from FS clients provided focused feedback on materials in development. The FSORK, available in English and Spanish includes a 20-minute video, poster, informational brochures, recipe cards, and resource guide. FSORK materials can be viewed at http://www.goodfoodtv.org. FSORK provides FSNE in FS offices by delivering information that will help low-income Californians purchase and prepare low-cost, nutritious meals and snacks. FSORK materials are designed to improve knowledge, skills, and intention regarding healthy eating practices, fruit and vegetable consumption, and physical activity. The video is shown on a continuous loop throughout the day in the office waiting area. A poster and recipe cards compliment the video. Recipe criteria included preparation ease, cost, and cultural appropriateness. Local Network programs reinforce the kit's messages through food demonstrations. A study using predictors of behavior change and estimation of information retention will evaluate FSORK usefulness. Results from client exit surveys and an observation study will be presented.