Snappy FACTs

Background: Indy Hunger Network is a coalition of representation from leading anti-hunger organizations in the Indianapolis area. The network\u27s mission is to provide food to all who are hungry in the Indianapolis area. Two services provided by the network include working with local farmers to obtain fresh fruits and vegetables to support those who are hungry and identifying locations in which to provide the fresh produce Objective: The primary objective is to help the Indy Hunger Network in their mission. Two specific tasks identified by the network where to (1) help with prediction of crop yields and (2) to design and implement informational handouts to the customers increasing their nutrition knowledge and assisting them on how to properly store and cook various produce. Methods: A list of resources regarding average produce yields in Indiana was collected and submitted to the Indy Hunger Network to help them estimate the amount of acreage and resources they will need to meet the increasing demands. Research was then gathered about the proper storage conditions, length of storage, correct methods of cooking vegetables and fruits, healthy food portions, and strategic meal planning. The collected information, along with information about government nutrition assistance programs, was then used to create a handout for customers to help educate them. Resources were also referenced in order to create seasonal recipes for the customers. The handout and recipe cards will be available at locations city wide that are accessible by the hungry and underserved population. Study Significance: By obtaining yield estimates and creating a cumulative resource that identifies healthy nutrition information, the Indy Hunger Network can further help their customers to achieve the proper nutrition that they need