In partnership with Harris County Precinct One, Prairie View A&M University Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Extension Agents, Ashley Moore engaged 4-H Health Ambassadors in public speaking and food prep/cooking classes at Finnigan Park in Houston’s Greater Fifth Ward. As a predominantly African-American community that originated in 1866, this event offered skill development and exposure to new experiences with education on healthy living that will prepare youth and adults for college, careers and life.
More than one-third of Greater Fifth Ward residents are under the age of 20 and of African American decent. Nearly half of the population in this community is below the poverty level; 74% of all residents have incomes less than twice the poverty level. Due to the economical disparities within the community, many believe they are unable to eat healthy and provide proper nutrition for their families
In an effort to prepare for the anticipated despair in 2050, Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU), acknowledges a vast number of communities similar in demographics of Greater Fifth Ward could benefit from its extension programs. Fortunately, Project 2050 is the University’s continued effort to educate and prepare these communities along with recognized USDA StrikeForce counties to participate in changing efforts by creating life-long advocates for a healthy lifestyle.
PVAMU College of Agriculture and Human Sciences strategically targeted these communities to engage and inform of ways to enhance their overall way of living. 4-H Health Ambassadors learned public speaking skills related to nutrition topics as tools to be a representative in the community and effectively conveyed healthier dietary options.
FCS Agent Ashley Moore introduced ambassadors to food preparations and cooking techniques to encourage healthy food choices, despite economic setbacks. This dynamic weekly event allowed Health Ambassadors to increase their cooking skills, practicing basic safety and sanitation, learning how to adapt recipes, knife safety and special measuring techniques. The Health Ambassadors were active in community service learning projects: Houston Food Bank and the Buffalo Soldiers Museum.
Finnigan Park Community Center donated all food and equipment for this initiative. Having community volunteers were key for the success of county events and Greater Fifth Ward had a volunteer that made this program a success, Ms. Edith Gant.
Maurice Perkins
Media and Publications Coordinator
maperkins@pvamu.edu
(936) 261-5116