Eat Smart New York (ESNY) is an educational program that promotes daily consumption of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and nonfat or low-fat milk or milk products. ESNY also encourages people to be physically active every day and balance calories eaten from foods and beverages with calories used when being physically active.
ESNY provides classes to people who are applying for or receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) (previously called Food Stamps). The program is run by Cooperative Extension regional offices throughout New York. Nutrition education classes are held at Extension offices, individual homes, and at agencies like food pantries, senior centers or head start locations.
Lessons are free and interactive! Topics ESNY classes focus on include:
- Selecting and preparing nutritious meals
- Managing household budgets
- Food safety
- Increasing physical activity
What the participants are saying:
“My Nutrition Educator taught me how to read food labels so I make better food choices. I’m spending less and saving more. I couldn’t have done this without your program,” said Crystal, ESNY participant.
“Since the Nutrition Educator has been coming to my house, I have learned how to get my kids to eat vegetables,” said Kathy, ESNY participant,
“I learned about preparing snacks in a healthier way and using healthier ingredients. The recipes will be helpful in preparing the menu for the children,” said Nancy, Daycare provider.
Contributors
Katherine Baildon and Sarina Kumar, Cornell Center for Behavioral Economics in Child Nutrition Programs
Sources
Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance. ‘Eat Smart New York.’ Accessed July 12, 2013.
Cornell University Cooperative Extension of Delaware County. ‘Eat Smart New York.’ Accessed July 12, 2013.
Cornell University Cooperative Extension Columbia & Greene Counties. ‘Eat Smart New York.’ Accessed July 12, 2013.