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Family and Consumer Sciences

Ohio State University Extension

CFAES

Eligibility

Food Nutrition lesson

EFNEP Program

EFNEP is free to the participants and agencies. This program is offered as a series of  lessons in a curriculum designed to teach families with children and young adults about USDA dietary recommendations using an interactive approach. Each lesson has research-based nutrition information, stretching food dollars, physical activity, parent tips, and preparation of healthy recipes. Participants also receive educational enhancements like recipes and resources in addition to their classes. Enhancements are given at the end of each series to promote healthy behavior change.

When are EFNEP classes offered and what is the cost?
EFNEP classes are free and held in the community.  Individuals, organizations, or agencies can organize classes. The supplies, educational enhancements, materials, and food tasting/recipe demonstrations are provided by EFNEP staff. 

*COVID Disclaimer – Ensuring the safety of EFNEP staff and participants is top priority. In accordance with federal and state policy, Ohio EFNEP will continue to follow necessary guidelines for COVID-19. Modifications to classes will be applied to all programming in aligned with Ohio State policy and guidelines for COVID-19.

Who qualifies to be a participant?

Adults:

  1. Anyone who is responsible for the care of children qualifies for this nutrition program, such as grandparents, day care providers, parents or other extended family members.
  2. Meet the income guidelines of up to 185% of Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Young Adults: 

  • Adults between 18 and 26 years of age with or without children. 

  • Meet the household income guidelines of up to 185% of Federal Poverty Guidelines. 

Youth:

  • Youth with 50% or more free and reduce lunch status qualify for EFNEP. Potential partners include schools, afterschool, summer food service sites, camps, churches and youth groups.

Any family with an income of 185% of the 2023 annual poverty level as shown in the table below is eligible for EFNEP’s free nutrition program:  

2023 Poverty guideline table for monthly and annual Income Current Federal Poverty Guidelines

Family Size

185% of Poverty Level Annually

185% of Poverty Level Monthly

1
(expectant parent)

$26,973

$2,248

2

$36,482

$3,040

3

$45,991

$3,833

4

$55,500

$4,625

5

$65,009

$5,417

6

$74,518

$6,210

7

$84,027

$7,002

8

$93,536

$7,795

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