Extension Specialist Suzann Knight and Dr. Elizabeth Dolan, Dept. of Family Studies, have been involved in a research project on rural poverty selected for recognition through an exhibit during the Agricultural Science and Education Exhibition/Reception, Nutrition and Health, on March 5, on Capital Hill.

Rural Families Speak: Health and Food Security is a 17-state research project, ongoing since 1998, focusing on rural low-income families, an understudied population, who are the recipients of public assistance, especially public food assistance. The purpose of the research is to assess changes in the well-being and functioning of rural families in the context of policies that reform welfare.

Rural Families Speak examines the interrelatedness of low-income rural families as it relates to labor force participation, health, including food security, and social support of family within the context of community forces, and opportunities that can strengthen or weaken rural families and communities.

The project is widely cited as an exemplary model of multi-state, multidisciplinary work. The outcomes are helping researchers, policy makers and practitioners gain a deeper understanding of the issues and challenges of rural, low-income families. The exhibit will feature results of the multi-state research, fact sheets and state-specific findings and information.