Illinois Nutrition Education Programs helps Illinois families make healthier choices through engaging, face-to-face classes and events, online resources, and healthy messaging strategies. By working to reach multiple family members through community programming, INEP makes a greater impact on healthy choices.

Impact of SNAP-Education programming

• Over 8 in 10 adults who attended SNAP-Ed classes shared they will make a healthy change to their eating habits
• Children who participate in programming prefer healthier foods and beverages, improve cooking skills, and are more physically active

Impact of EFNEP programming on adults

• 91% of adults improved nutrition habits
• 70% of adults improved their physical activity
• 76% of adults improved food budgeting

Impact of EFNEP programming on youth

• 82% youth learned more about and can better choose healthy foods
• 52% youth learned more about physical activity or became more active
• 57% youth learned more about or can better prepare simple, healthy, affordable foods

Providing education where families learn, live, shop, play, eat, and work

In 2021, Illinois Nutrition Education Programs SNAP-Education partnered with:

• 703 places where families learn (67% K-12 schools and 15% early childhood sites)
• 358 places where families live (38% faith-based organizations)
• 212 places where families shop (86% are food pantries or food banks)
• 114 places where families play
• 5 places where families eat
• 4 places where families work

In addition, at many of these locations, INEP worked with the site to make changes that promote and encourage healthier choices. Changes included lunchroom makeovers, farm-to-school initiatives, healthy snacks and vending machine policies, and more.