Family Nutrition and Health
The UMES Extension Family Nutrition and Health program works to cultivate healthy communities on the Eastern Shore of Maryland.
Our educators work with individuals and families to provide free, hands-on lessons that promote healthy eating, practical cooking skills and strategies for self-sufficiency through our Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) program and the USDA NIFA supported Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP).
The program partners with local organizations, businesses and nonprofits in Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester counties by making practical health and nutrition education resources accessible to all.
Adult program partners in the tricounty area of the Eastern Shore of Maryland include farmers markets, homeless shelters, social services, parents and faith-based groups.
Youth program partners include local youth organizations, youth and family services, The Salvation Army, and faith-based groups such as HALO and the Christian Shelter, among others.
What Is EFNEP
EFNEP, the nation’s first federal nutrition education program, seeks to improve the food and physical activity behaviors of low-income families and youth.
Through the EFNEP Program, UMES Extension educators work directly with individuals and families, providing free, hands-on lessons that promote healthy eating, practical cooking skills, and strategies for self-sufficiency. These efforts support improved nutritional health and overall well-being.
Our educators meet people where they are, working within local communities to make practical health and nutrition education accessible to everyone.
EFNEP has directly impacted economic, obesity and food insecurity challenges that hinder the nutritional health and well-being of this nation. Collectively, 76 land-grant universities, including the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, conduct EFNEP and reach roughly 200,000 low-income adults and 450,000 low-income youth in rural and urban communities each year through Cooperative Extension. EFNEP is available in all states, U.S. territories and the District of Columbia.
For more information about EFNEP, visit the NIFA EFNEP page.
What Is Family and Consumer Sciences
Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) is a multidisciplinary field dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals, families and communities.
Through our FCS program, educators deliver free, hands-on lessons that cover:
- Healthy eating and practical cooking skills
- Food preservation
- Personal finance and resource management
- Parenting and family life skills
These efforts empower participants to make informed decisions, manage their resources wisely and work toward long-term health and well-being.
What Our Classes Provide
EFNEP and FCS classes are designed with flexibility to meet participants’ schedules and typically include the components listed below:
EFNEP
| Class Component | What Participants Can Expect |
| Basic Nutrition | Practical, evidence-based tips for healthy eating, meal planning and making smarter food choices. |
| Physical Activity | A short, easy-to-follow movement session to promote regular exercise and an active lifestyle. |
| Cooking Demonstration | A live, hands-on cooking demonstration featuring an EFNEP recipe, complete with tasting samples and a take-home recipe copy for participants. |
Family and Consumer Sciences
| Class Component | What Participants Can Expect |
| Basic Nutrition Lesson | Participants learn how to plan balanced meals, read food labels and make healthier choices every day. |
| Physical Activity | Sessions include simple exercises to improve energy, strength and overall well-being. |
| Cooking Demonstration | Participants practice basic cooking skills and gain confidence in preparing nutritious, affordable meals at home. |
| Food Preservation | Participants discover ways to reduce food waste and extend the life of seasonal produce. |
| Parenting | Lessons focus on communication, strengthening parent–child relationships, establishing family routines and creating supportive home environments. |
| Budgeting | Participants learn how to create budgets, prioritize spending, and make cost-effective food and household purchases. |
Outside the Classroom
Our educators don’t just teach classes. They are also active in the community, attending health fairs, community events and local conferences, extending the reach of UMES Extension’s mission. These outreach activities help us build lasting relationships and strengthen community health — one class, one family and one meal at a time.
Partner With Us
Interested in hosting a class or collaborating on an event? We welcome partnerships with local organizations, schools and community groups. Contact Emily V. Hitchcock, extension program specialist, at evhitchcock@umes.edu or 443-523-5977.
Contact Us
Dr. Virginie Zoumenou
Professor & State Extension Nutrition and Health Programs Director
Phone: 410-651-6212
Email: vmzoumenou@umes.edu
