Shaw

Researchers are evaluating ways to improve the health and nutrition of adults in Mississippi who face different health challenges. This project, called Fostering Community Solutions (FOCUS) by the Mississippi Community Engagement Alliance (MS CEAL), aims to increase fruit and vegetable consumption and support nutrition security through community strategies. The study will also look at how nutrition education impacts people's dietary habits and health measures like blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol. The study enrolls 400 adults across four locations for a 12-month period. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one group will receive bi-weekly food boxes plus nutrition education classes led by a Registered Dietician, while the other group will receive only the bi-weekly food boxes without classes. The intervention lasts 6 months, followed by in-person follow-ups at 9 and 12 months. Those in the food box only group can join the nutrition education after the main intervention. Participants will be involved in receiving food boxes and attending nutrition classes if assigned. Researchers will monitor fruit and vegetable intake, knowledge and perceptions about diet, and clinical health outcomes from baseline through 6 months after intervention completion. They will also track recruitment, retention, training of community nutrition liaisons, and outreach efforts. The total study participation spans one year with scheduled follow-ups to support lasting nutrition improvements.