Agriculture Aides: A New Manpower Resource?

Abstract

A survey was conducted among nutrition aides in the U.S. to find out their attitudes toward family planning, and to determine if the low-income families in their case-loads had expressed an interest in family planning. A random sample of nutrition aides was drawn, and questionnaires directed toward selected aides. There was a 95% response rate (375) and an overwhelming endorsement of family planning. 93.7% declared their clientele needed information on family planning, and 2/3 reported they had been asked for birth control information on family planning, and families they serviced. Almost 97% of the aides gave some kind of birth control advice when asked for it, although mostly of a referral nature. 87% of the respondents said if trained, they would be willing to teach family planning. It would be beneficial if the Department of Agriculture would assume more responsibility in family planning matters through the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program, of which these aides are a part. In 1971, 9,000 women served as aides to more than 1.7 million low-income persons. The Department of Agriculture could request special funds for training in family planning of aides. Various groups within the Extension program could relay their needs and interest in family planning to their state Extension services and to the national body for program development.