Larimer County CSU Extension has long been a valuable resource for our county. For more than 100 years, Extension has provided research-based information, available to all. No surprise, in 2020, Extension had to provide education and services in new, safe ways. Also no surprise, Extension found unique ways to meet the needs of our community. Here are just a few program highlights.
Health and Wellness: Classes went online, meaning more people could access them. Given the social isolation, fear and grief being encountered, these classes were lifelines to many. Classes saw an incredible increase in attendance across our community, and even across the country.
Senior Access Points: Senior Access Points has long been a support to older adults and caregivers. This year, the program carried a heavier load, researching and providing accessible, current, accurate information.
Market Days! for Older Adults: Run through the Farmers’ Market, provides fresh produce to low-income older adults. During the pandemic, the program had to change delivery. Volunteers delivered 1161 bags to 269 individuals.
Radon Awareness. 200 homeowners learned about the health effects of high radon levels and received a free radon test kit to test their home.
Yard and Garden: During the pandemic more than ever were gardening. Extension provided free education to hundreds. Also, participants in the Grow & Give program, which encouraged residents to donate food from their own gardens to families in need, donated more than 4500 pounds from Larimer County alone.
4-H Youth Development: Larimer County is the largest 4-H program in Colorado, assisting youth in developing leadership, responsibility, citizenship, and life skills.
Food Safety and Preservation: 2020 saw an increase of home gardening, resulting in an increase in home food preservation. Extension provided safe home food preservation information for our community. Larimer County Farmers’ Market. Even during the pandemic, the Market was able to operate with appropriate safety measures. We served 50,997 individuals. Learn much more about what Larimer County CSU Extension offers: www.LarimerExtension.org.