University of Illinois Extension
hosts SNAP-Ed conferences
Pre-registration closes February 25th
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[February 18, 2022]
One in ten people in Illinois struggle with food insecurity daily,
according to Feeding America. When families are hungry, making a
healthy food choice is not always the easy choice.
To increase healthier outcomes for communities, SNAP Education at
University of Illinois Extension will host two separate regional
Illinois Hunger and Health Conferences to catalyze collaboration
among local, public and regional organizations working together to
address food insecurity and its impact on health.
“It’s exciting to bring food pantries, food banks, and community
partners together from across the state to increase awareness and
facilitate dialogue about food access and nutrition,” says Kaitlyn
Streitmatter, Illinois Extension SNAP-Ed Educator and conference
co-organizer. “The conference will provide an opportunity to share
ideas and resources impacting community health through food pantries
while building a network of support.”
Participants may register for either of the in-person workshops held
from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Mar. 9 and Mar. 17. Each workshop costs
$10 per person and includes a noon meal. Fee waivers are available.
Check-in details will be provided during registration, which
closes Feb. 25.
Mar. 9 | Illinois Valley Community College, Oglesby, IL:
Register at
go.illinois.edu/HHCnorth
Mar. 17 | Salvation Army, Springfield, IL: Register at
go.illinois.edu/HHCcentral
Informational booths will provide opportunity for attendees to learn
about SNAP-Ed resources, food pantry set-up, Find Food IL food
locator map, and more. Participants will also select two breakout
sessions to attend during the workshop. Topics include Nutrition
Policy, Community Collaboration, Trauma Informed Approach to Food
Dignity, and Connecting to Local Produce.
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Optional food handler training will be offered from 8 to 10 a.m. on each date at
no additional cost. Course participants will earn a Food Handlers Certificate
upon completion.
The conference will conclude with a keynote speaker and award presentations for
Illinois food pantry champions in these categories: Exceptional Food Pantry
Manager, Healthy Pantry Initiatives, Outstanding Health Equity Leader,
Innovative Food Programming, and Volunteer of the Year.
Organizations are encouraged to submit award nominations before Feb. 25:
go.illinois.edu/NominateHHC22
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Following Illinois Department of Public Health guidelines, program participants
and conference staff will be required to wear a face-covering regardless of
vaccination status and practice social distancing.
For questions or to request a reasonable accommodation, contact organizer Kayla
Swaar at: go.illinois.edu/ContactHHconference
The Illinois Hunger and Health Conference is sponsored by University of Illinois
Extension with funds from USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and
employment.
ABOUT EXTENSION: Illinois Extension leads public outreach for University of
Illinois by translating research into action plans that allow Illinois families,
businesses, and community leaders to solve problems, make informed decisions,
and adapt to changes and opportunities.
[WRITER: Kayla Swaar, SNAP-Ed
Educator, University of Illinois Extension] |