MU Extension shares 2024 "reach" report for Cole County; staff note nationwide SNAP-Ed elimination and local staffing changes

University of Missouri Extension representatives presented a condensed 2024 "reach" report for Cole County, summarizing the number of county residents served through programs including 4-H, small-business development, agriculture and environment, health and human sciences, and first-responder continuing education.

Presenters said the report uses data pulled in March 2024 from internal reporting and provides a brief snapshot of program contacts and local impact. Extension staff encouraged commissioners and the community to recruit volunteers and project leaders for 4-H (ages 5–18; Clover Kids are 5–7 with enrollment starting in October) and mentioned an upcoming "100 miles in 100 days" bike and walk program with a September event around the state capitol.

Nutrition program update: presenters told the commission that the federal SNAP-Ed program was eliminated nationwide in a recent federal reconciliation bill and that several extension nutrition staff across the state received layoff notices. The presenters said one local staffer—identified in the meeting as Dawn (Poole County office)—will be retained and will shift to Family Nutrition Program (EFNP) outreach after the SNAP-Ed changes.

Commissioner and public exchange: a commissioner asked whether Clover Kids can begin showing and selling ham products and learned that youth may begin preparing ham entries at age 5 but may not sell until age 8. Extension staff encouraged residents to sign up for programs and volunteer opportunities.

Materials and availability: the presenters left condensed printed copies of the reach report at the meeting and said they would post more information on social media; they also offered to provide additional copies to commissioners and the clerk’s office.