In New York State, the federal Nutrition Education & Obesity Prevention Grant Program, more commonly known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – Education (SNAP-Ed), is known as SNAP-Ed New York. SNAP-ED NY’s nutrition education and disease prevention efforts is coordinated by the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Administration (NYS OTDA) and is administered by a network of program providers including several local Cornell Cooperative Extension agencies.
SNAP-Ed NY teaches people how to shop for and cook healthy meals on a limited budget. SNAP-Ed NY plays a vital role in improving public health by helping prevent or delay diet-related chronic diseases among low-income New Yorkers. SNAP-eligible populations face barriers such as affordability, limited access, and low nutrition literacy, which challenge their ability to consume nutrient-rich foods. SNAP-Ed NY addresses these barriers through evidence-based nutrition education, promotion of healthy habits, and support for healthier food environments. In collaboration with individuals, community organizations, and state agencies, SNAP-Ed NY delivers programs that encourage healthy eating and physical activity, aligned with the latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
The program has 4 primary nutrition-related objectives designed to improve health among the SNAP population:
- Increase the consumption of nutrient dense fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and low-fat dairy products.
- Increase physical activity and reduce sedentary behaviors
- Decrease the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages
- Reduce the consumption of low nutrient, high-energy dense foods containing large amounts of added sugars, salt and saturated fat
The program also has three primary objectives related to food insecurity and hunger that are designed to improve health among the SNAP population:
- Improve food resource management skills
- Improve food preparation skills
- Increase access to affordable and nutritious food