Formative Qualitative Research Informs Tailoring SNAP-Ed Curriculum for Transitional Housing Residents
This research examines how nutrition and wellness education can be adapted to better support individuals living in transitional housing. Through interviews with shelter residents and staff, researchers identified barriers related to healthy eating, physical activity, and food access, then modified the SNAP-ed "Create Better Health" curriculum to better reflect residents' daily realities.
The study highlights the importance of community-informed programming, practical health strategies, and strengths-based approaches in supporting long-term wellness and stability for individuals transitioning out of homelessness.
Key Takeaways:
- Nutrition and wellness programs are more effective when they are adapted to the real-life circumstances of people transitioning out of homelessness
- Residents in transitional housing often face barriers such as limited cooking equipment, restricted food storage, inconsistent schedules, physical limitations, and limited access to affordable healthy food
- Researchers modified the SNAP-Ed "Create Better Health" curriculum to better fit residents' needs by:
- Adding microwave friendly recipes
- Incorporating strategies for healthy eating at convenience and dollar stores
- Adapting physical activities recommendations for injuries and disabilities
- Focusing on realistic, achievable health goals
- Collaboration between researchers, shelter staff, and residents was essential in designing relevant and practical programming
- Empowering, strengths-based education approaches may help residents build confidence and develop sustainable healthy habits
- Existing SNAP-Ed and Cooperative Extension networks could make these types of interventions scalable across communities
This article was authored by Kristi Strongo MPH, CHES, Casey Coombs MS, RDN, James D. LeCheminant PhD, Cathy Merrill MS, Cindy Jenkins MPA, Heidi LeBlanc MS, Michael W. Smith MS, Megan Bell BS, Brynne Karlinsey Skidmore BS, Rickelle Richards PhD, MPH, RDN.