Union County, NJ – Help is on the way for Union County residents looking for new ways to balance their budgets and improve overall health. The Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County is offering another round of a popular new online program called “Spring 2010 Challenge.” The free program helps participants learn simple new habits that save money and lead to better nutrition.
Spring 2010 Challenge kicks off on April 11.
“The Freeholder Board is proud to support a program that is becoming a model for other county Extension programs across the nation,” said Freeholder Chairman Daniel P. Sullivan. “The research shows that simple, gradual changes can be highly effective.”
Spring 2010 Challenge is an online version of a comprehensive program called Small Steps to Health and WealthTM. Over time, the “small steps” can add up to significant results.
Participants in Spring 2010 Challenge will set modest goals and track their daily progress online. Points are awarded for achievement and participants can compare their personal progress with the overall average. It runs for five weeks, from April 11 to May 15. Enrollment is free and prizes are awarded for the highest points.
Union County residents can sign up for Spring 2010 Challenge by visiting the Small Steps to Health and WealthTM website, http://njaes.rutgers.edu/sshw.
Small Steps to Health and WealthTM was developed by Dr. Karen Ensle, a Rutgers nutrition expert who heads the Union County Extension, along with financial specialist Dr. Barbara O’Neill. The program is being introduced to other Extension offices in the U.S. It is based on behavioral research that shows the relationship between budget and nutrition.
Some of the daily “small steps” are replacing expensive sugar-sweetened beverages with water, getting 30 minutes of physical activity (including walking), saving pocket change, and eating home-made lunches. Participants also receive daily email tips on healthy eating and effective budgeting.
The program was tested last winter with excellent results. Among the participants responding to a survey, 69% reported eating healthier foods, 46% increased their physical activity, 47% saved money (including some who saved more than $500), and 33% lost weight.
The Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County is supported in part by the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders. To learn more about Small Steps to Health and WealthTM and the Spring 2010 Challenge, visit http://njaes.rutgers.edu/sshw or call the Union County Extension office, 908-654-9854.
Rutgers Cooperative Extension belongs to a nationwide Extension network that helps connect the public with science-based research and information, along with providing Agricultural and Resource Management, Family and Community Health Sciences and 4-H Youth Development programs.
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