Family and Consumer Sciences
The goal of family and consumer sciences (FCS) programs is to improve the quality of life for adults, children and families by utilizing research-based data to educate in the areas of food safety (which encompasses food preservation), healthy lifestyles and financial management.
University of Idaho Extension is a reliable resource of information, which uses research-based information to educate clientele. Classes are offered on a variety of topics and additional ones can be provided upon request.
Whether meals are prepared fully in the home, or purchased partially or fully prepared, Idaho consumers need reliable, up-to-date information on how to keep their food safe during selection, preparation and storage. Safe resources for food preservation are also heavily needed, especially with a large agricultural base of options available in the county.
UI Extension educators provide food safety training and information to consumers through classes, face-to-face and telephone consultations. The goal of food safety and food preservation education is to maintain the health of Idaho residents by preventing outbreaks of food borne illness.
Some classes include:
- Preservation Basics
- Hands-On High Acid Canning
- Safe Gifts from the Kitchen
- Germ City — a hand washing unit for youth
Health & Nutrition
There is a growing concern about the number of people facing high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, cancer and obesity nationwide. With the increasing demand for ways to live healthier lives, multiple classes are offered, including:
- Healthy Diabetes Plate
- Cook Once: Eat for a Week
- Healthy Living — Straight from the Garden
Financial Resource Management
To improve the financial literacy and money management practices of Idahoans, UI Extension provides an assortment of classes and workshops.
In response to the devastating fire in Owyhee County in August 2015 that ravaged over 280,000 acres of land, UI Extension now offers a class titled Financial Records Organization: Preparing for Emergencies and Disasters. This workshop is available to groups or information can be made available to individuals.