VSDC Eat Smart Program Update

VSDC has conducted the VSDC Eat Smart Program since 2004 to empower low-income and other populations at high risk of developing diet-related disorders with information and strategies to provide healthier diets for themselves and their families. The heart of the VSDC Eat Smart Program is a 2-month course that comprises nutrition classes, cooking classes/demonstrations, shopping classes, and Eating Out Healthfully classes. Program graduates receive a free, 1-year VSDC membership and are invited to join the VSDC Eat Smart Program Alumni Association to support them after the program.

This year, 2 courses were conducted from April 3 to June 16 at the Southeast Tennis and Learning Center and the Riverside Center in Northeast with a combined enrollment of 60 people. On June 23, VSDC held a festive graduation ceremony for the 35 dedicated individuals who completed the spring courses.

Once again, the program was a success. Of the 23 individuals completing the final survey: 22 (96%) reported that their knowledge of the basics of good nutrition has increased substantially; 21 (91%) reported that their knowledge of how to prepare healthful meals has increased substantially; 22 (96%) reported that their knowledge of how to shop for healthful foods has increased substantially; and 22 (96%) reported that their knowledge of how to eat out healthfully has increased substantially. In addition, 22 (96%) reported a substantial improvement in dietary choices for themselves; and of the 20 participants for whom the question was applicable, 17 (85%) reported a substantial improvement in dietary choices for their families.

Generous funding from the Consumer Health Foundation and the DC Escheated Estates Fund made the program possible during 2006. If we are able to raise sufficient funds, VSDC expects to conduct another set of courses in the spring of 2007. Your donation would be greatly appreciated!

The above article was reprinted from VSDC News, 2006 Oct/Nov/Dec, page 8.

Thanks to Linda Thompson, MS, LN, the program director and course instructor of this fourth semester of the VSDC Eat Smart Program.