August 2012
What is Family and Consumer Sciences? Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) is one of the many programs offered within the Cooperative Extension Program. FCS combines aspects of social and natural science and deals with the relationship between individuals, families, and communities, and the environment in which they live. FCS assists the community with a wide body of research-based knowledge about topics that have immediate and long term effects on the lives of the community participants whom we serve. The information provided helps the community participants make healthier decisions concerning their family, home, and food. The family’s physical, financial and emotional health is extremely important. FCS provides education and outreach on issues related to Nutrition, Childhood Obesity, Food Safety, Financial Money Management, and Parenting. In addition, our wellness and nutrition focus includes the Expanded Food Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP). FCS is dedicated to meeting the needs of primarily limited resource and diverse Texans across the state. Located in 15 counties, our specialist and county staff offer programs on a variety of topics that are effectively changing the lives of Texas citizens.
Nutrition and Childhood Obesity Obesity, diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease rank high among health problems in all racial groups, but general statistics indicate that the incidence of these health problems are higher in the African American, Hispanic and Native American populations than in any other population groups.