“Take A Step Ahead” Program

Seneca/Cayuga Community Action Program (CAP)

“Take A Step Ahead” (TASA) is a NYS Department of Health and Human Services Program authorized by the Teenage Services Act. TASA provides case management to promote family stability, improve self-esteem, and encourage self-sufficiency to pregnant, parenting, and at-risk teens ages 10-21. Services are coordinated with the Seneca County Department of Human Services.

Seneca County Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Eat Smart New York (link to ESNY on CCE web page) partners with TASA by providing a “Cooking-Up Fun” program each month throughout the school year. Youth enjoy making healthy recipes using the resources from www.MyPyramid.gov and 4-H Youth Development. Youth are encouraged to invite their parents to all “Cooking –Up Fun” program activities.

The “Cooking-Up Fun” nutrition education program has been successful because the youth enjoy the hands-on cooking activities. Youth have learned that preparing recipes such as a “Fruit Smoothie” or “Vegetable Stir-Fry” can make increasing consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables “Oh so GOOD !”

One of the youth’s mother attends “Cooking-Up Fun” on a regular basis. Her son struggles with being over-weight. As a mom she wanted guidance on how to develop her son’s self-esteem while learning to make healthier choices.  The “Cooking-Up Fun” program was the opportunity this mom had been looking for. Mom and son have enjoyed putting into practice things they have learned together. These things include making delicious healthy recipes, reading food labels to make healthier food choices, and making food shopping dollars go farther by using wise food budget tips.

Funding for this program is a cooperative effort between Seneca County Community Action’s TASA Program and Seneca County Cornell Cooperative Extension.

For more information on “Cooking-Up Fun” contact Linda Lawrence, ESNY Educator (link to CCE staff directory). For more information on Seneca County Community Action Program’s (CAP) “Take A Step Ahead (TASA) contact Rose Rathborn, CAP Director at 315-539-5647 (Extension 123).