NJ 5 A DAY COALITION
The New Jersey 5 A Day for Better Health Program (commonly referred to as NJ 5 A Day) is cosponsored by the Department of Health and Senior Services and the Department of Agriculture. The New Jersey 5 A Day Coalition consists of organizations representing community health, nutrition, and education, government agencies and the food industry. The New Jersey 5 A Day Coalition is a diverse group of stakeholders advocating the consumption of 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables daily for the purpose of promoting health and improving the quality of life for all New Jerseyans. Through the effort and commitment of the 5 A Day Coalition, many activities and events take place to spread the word about the health benefits of fruits and vegetables. Through participation with the NJ SNAP-Ed Program Network, NJ 5 A Day keeps the network informed of 5 A Day educational and promotional resources that can be used in nutrition education classes. In addition, the network has helped supply staffing support for National 5 A Day Week awareness activities. NJ SNAP-Ed Program county offices sponsor Senior Farmers markets where seniors can use 5 A Day coupons to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables. The Monmouth County 4H developed a "Five A Day Through Theatre and Role Plan Curriculum" which is being used across the state to teach intergenerational audiences the importance of eating 5 fruits and vegetables per day. Collaboration with the 5 A Day Program has resulted in nutrition education opportunities where lesson plans have been developed that contain the 5 A Day philosophy. SNAP-Ed Program paraprofessionals continually preach the 5 A Day message resulting in SNAP-Ed Program's ongoing marketing support of the "5 A Day" Program.
Maryann Ellswsorth
Coordinator
New Jersey 5 A Day Coalition
c/o WIC Services
P.O. Box 364
50 E. State Street
Trenton, NJ 08625-0364
(609) 292-9560
(609) 292-9288 fax
Email: maryann.ellseworth@don.state.nj.us