SNAP-Ed is a Michigan State University Extension program that teaches nutrition to youth as well as adults.

The goal is to help them learn the importance of eating healthy, making wiser food choices and exercise.

SNAP is an acronym for Supplemental Nutrition Assistant Program.

Nora Lee is the program associate.

The program is delivered in various Cass County schools, which must be at least 50-percent food stamp eligible, adults at home and a senior complex.

SNAP-Ed programming is implemented at Sam Adams Elementary School in Cassopolis, Justus Gage and Patrick Hamilton elementary schools in Dowagiac, Marcellus Elementary, the Department of Human Services, WIC (Women, Infant, Children, Pokagon Band and in the process of working with the WorkFirst program.

From October 2011-June 2012, 378 students were taught nutrition education in the schools. More than 50 adults participated.

Also implemented from the U.S. Department of Agriculture was the “MyPlate” program that reinforces the “MyPyramid” to help children and adults visualize what should be on their plates.

MSUE-Cass County

2012 participation numbers

Swine (sow herd — 25), Cass County swine to market (65,000 pigs) — 140

4-H volunteer leaders (283) and members (853) — 1,136

Off the Street Trunk or Treat — 1,250

SNAP-Ed — students (378), adults (50) — 428

Total — 2,954