The Power of Produce Club was identified by the Healthy for Life Action Team as a program, that when combined with other actions in our community, has a reasonable chance of making a difference in the consumption of fruits and vegetables, healthy eating, and nutrition in our community. This is a new program in Jackson County.

• The audience for this  program are children in kindergarten-5th grade. The program aims to make a difference in individual behavior and impact families. Implementation takes place at the Jackson County Farmer's Market on Saturday mornings in July. 

Partners 

These are the partners who have a role to play in doing better.

• Great Smokies Health Foundation
  • Role: Provide funding and materials for program, implement program
• Harris Regional Hospital
  • Role: Provide materials for program, implement program
• Jackson County Department of Public Health
  • Role: Provide materials for program, implement program
• Jackson County Farmer's Market
  • Role: Provide space and materials for the program, implement program
• Western Carolina University Dietetic Internship Program
  • Role: Provide materials for the program, implement program

2017 Updates

The Power of the Produce Club (POP Club) was a new initiative in Jackson County during 2017.  The 3 sessions were held at the Jackson County Farmer's Market in Sylva during 3 Saturday mornings in July, the 15th, 22nd, and 29th.  Each session, participants completed a pre and post survey, participated in a hands-on learning activity relating to nutrition, and were then given $5 of POP Bucks to spend at the Farmer's Market. 

A total of 42 children attending the 3 sessions (numbers are duplicated, as children were encouraged to attend all 3 sessions if possible).  Pre and post survey results stated that 21 children reported trying new foods that they liked, which included beets, lettuce, blueberries, and more.  

The event was very successful and something the action team looks forward to planning and implementing in the future.