University of Maryland Extension nutrition and healthy living programs promote the health and well-being of individuals, families, and the community in Washington* County through education, research, and outreach. Our work is based on the latest research from the University of Maryland and other institutions aimed at influencing policy, systems, and environmental changes and supporting individuals in making behavioral changes for a healthier lifestyle. Our vision is for all Maryland residents to achieve healthy living and economic success across the life span.
Nutrition and Healthy Living Program Offerings
- Dining with Diabetes
- Mind-Body Medicine and other stress management programs
- Chronic Disease and Diabetes Self-Management Programs
- Hands-on food preservation classes, including canning, freezing, and drying
- Food safety
- Healthy eating and an active lifestyle for every age in life
If you have questions or want to learn more about our programs or workshops, contact Lisa McCoy, Family and Consumer Sciences educator for Healthy Living at lmccoy@umd.edu.
Community Collaborations
- LOCAL AGENCIES: UME provides train-the-trainer education in local agencies, including HRDC, Hope Station, Maryland Food Bank, etc. It encourages staff and customers to make healthy food choices, develop food preparation skills, handle food safely, improve shopping skills, and increase physical activity.
- FOOD PANTRIES: Collaboration with UME supports the distribution of fresh produce and pantry staples delivered to mobile food drops in several locations. Host agencies have included Hope Station, St John’s/Arch St, Mt Savage Fire Hall, Bruce Outreach Center, Flintstone UMC, and First Wesleyan/Cresaptown.
- FARMERS’ MARKETS: UME supports the work of the Allegany County Farmers’ Market Association and provides nutritional education, recipes, and resources at local Farmers’ Markets. Summer programming for children is provided in downtown Cumberland and City Place, Frostburg locations.