The Food is Medicine program combines nutrition education, health screenings, and food security measures to improve the overall health of the participants. Food insecurity is a major issue across the nation, including the communities of Decatur County, Indiana. Based on Map the Meal Gap data, 12.9 percent of people in Decatur County were food insecure in 2022. Unfortunately, food insecurity leads to fewer food choices and food quality typically diminishes. While not entirely preventable, diet does play a substantial role in lowering disease risk and increasing overall well-being. This project aims to improve health through several avenues; direct education will be provided, along with increased access to healthy food.

This program will include:

•  Health Screenings - Pre- and post-program screenings provided by Decatur County Health Department – free of charge and completely confidential.
• Nutrition Education - Purdue Extension will provide nutrition education. Participants will get to taste food samples at every class.
• Food Boxes - Participants will receive a free meal kit at the end of every class to allow them to make the meal at home for their families. Additionally, they will receive small cooking supplies such as measuring cups, spatulas, bowls, etc.
• Those who complete at least 7 of the 9-week series will receive a bonus item, such as a slow cooker or other small kitchen appliance.