Culinary Health Education and Fitness (C.H.E.F.): A Large-Scale Program to Reduce Rural Health Disparity Through Networking and Relationship Building

Abstract

Abstract Objectives The Culinary Health Education and Fitness (C.H.E.F.) program is a 3-year program designed to help children and families in three Oregon counties (Lincoln, rural Benton and East Linn) achieve higher-quality lives through the promotion of physical activity and nutrition. The program utilized nutrition-focused culinary education that included cooking classes and tasting tables to empower families to be self-sufficient in the kitchen, make healthy food choices and increase exposure to fruits and vegetables. The program also sought to strengthen relationships among health-advocacy stakeholders, train future physicians to deliver nutrition education, and to integrate the Coordinated Approach to Child Health (CATCH) program at school sites as a sustainable program for increasing physical activity in school-aged children. Methods Quantitative and qualitative data were gathered from classes, schools and stakeholders through pre- and post-surveys, interviews, program records, and observation to assess program reach, process evaluation, cooking self-efficacy, physical activity and change in nutrition knowledge. Our mixed methods approach was organized around the concepts of Exposure, Integrity and Intensity (for the process evaluation) and Outcomes. Results The program had extensive reach with >3200 children served at tasting tables, >800 participants in culinary education classes, and >2500 students participated in CATCH at their schools. Nearly 100 community partners, medical students and volunteers were trained to deliver the evidence-based culinary education. The implementation of CATCH increased vigorous physical activity in children. Culinary education courses effectively introduced children to new vegetables and fruits and raised confidence in their ability to prepare healthy foods at home. Relationships flourished through the various meetings, trainings and conferences related to the program. A robust network of health advocacy stakeholders continues to grow across the tri-county area through various activities related to this program work. Conclusions Through a wide array of relationships and community partnerships, the C.H.E.F. program promotes healthy lifestyles and a culture of health in rural Oregon communities. Funding Sources HRSA Rural Network Development Grant.