Family and Consumer Sciences

The mission of Family & Consumer Sciences agents is to promote economic, environmental, and social sustainability for families by providing education for living well in Florida, now and for the future.

The Family and Consumer Sciences educational programs link research, knowledge, and technology to the needs of individuals, families, and communities in the county. Dedicated to strengthening families through education, the belief is that the family:

• Is the most effective and efficient unit for building a competent society;
• Has a right to meet basic needs and to make choices about its future, and;
• Is interdependent within communities and their environments.
• The emphasis of the Family and Consumer Sciences program is to improve Manatee County's families by providing instruction to parents and child care providers to ensure that they have the knowledge necessary to provide for a caring, loving, and nurturing environment for their children. Other elements of this program include nutrition and food safety, money management, and providing adequate housing.

Coming in June 2008...

Take Charge of Your Diabetes

A Diabetes Education Program for Persons with Type 2 Diabetes. View the flyer... (131KB pdf)

What is it?

Take Charge of Your Diabetes is an Extension-based collaborative educational program targeted to persons with type 2 diabetes.

How can the program help me?

Take Charge of Your Diabetes can help you (1) improve your hemoglobin A1C; (2) lower your blood pressure; (3) create a healthy meal plan that works for you; (4) learn how to check your feet; and (5) take charge of your diabetes!

When does the program take place?

The initial health assessments (height, weight, and blood pressure) will take place on or before the first class.  Classes begin June 5, 2008 and run weekly for eight weeks, followed by a 6-week and 3-month follow-up.  All activities will take place from 5:30 - 7:30pm at the Manatee County Extension office in Palmetto.

What is the cost of the program?

The cost of the program is $75.00 for each participant.  Each participant is allowed to bring one support person free of charge.  The cost includes all materials, health assessments, speakers, and refreshments.

How do I sign up?

To register for Take Charge of Your Diabetes, please call Samantha Kennedy at (941)722-4524.  SPACE IS LIMITED.  The deadline for registration is May 30, 2008.