Date of Award

January 2021

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Public Health (MPH)

Department

School of Public Health

First Advisor

Debbie Humphries

Second Advisor

Kathleen O'Connor Duffany

Abstract

The purpose of the current evaluation is to assess the role of the Wholesome Wave Depth2020 Fruit and Vegetable Incentive program and its components on participants’ outcomes related to health, knowledge, attitudes, and behavior. It was found that after the 6-month fruit and vegetable incentive program, participants’ general health significantly increased, and participants’ number of chronic diseases being managed significantly decreased. Consumption of both fruits and vegetables increased during the program; there was not a significant change in participants’ knowledge about the benefits of fruits and vegetables or in participants’ children’s attitudes about fruit or vegetables. Participants’ pre- and post-program responses indicated that increased knowledge of the health benefits of fruits and vegetables resulted in increased fruit and vegetable consumption. Increases in knowledge also predicted higher rates of voucher spending. Participants’ qualitative responses indicated that many participants felt healthier and had more energy as a result of the program, and felt they were able to afford higher quality foods that they otherwise would not be able to purchase due to cost. Participants also reported practicing more healthy behaviors, such as meal planning, healthier cooking methods, and increasing regular physical activity. The most helpful aspect of the incentive program, as reported by participants, was the monthly fruit and vegetable voucher. The program proved to be significantly influential in increasing consumption of fresh produce and consequently improving health for those participants who were able to sustain involvement throughout the program.

Comments

This is an Open Access Thesis.

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