Phillip’s Story
“In 2021, Kansas SNAP-Ed launched a virtual direct education option to meet participants’ evolving needs in a post-COVID world. Designed to overcome barriers like transportation, childcare, and busy work schedules, the virtual series uses the Create Better Health curriculum to bring practical, engaging lessons directly into participants’ homes. With mailed handouts, physical activity tools, and pre-recorded recipe demonstrations, the program fosters knowledge, community, and connection—even from a distance.
In Fall 2024, Phillip joined a six-week virtual Create Better Health class. He didn’t miss a single session, actively engaging with the material and sharing his progress with the group. Phillip began using his NERI (nutrition education reinforcement item) stretch band while walking and started cooking more meals at home after watching the Create Concept recipe videos. He was so inspired by what he learned that he began spreading the word to friends and even local health clinic providers.
“I am exercising more, eating at home, and just feel better,” Phillip shared. “I am telling everyone I know about this class.”
Thanks to a partnership with United Healthcare, participants with United Healthcare Medicaid coverage, like Phillip, who complete the full Create Better Health series, receive a small kitchen item to support their continued success. Phillip was thrilled to receive an electric skillet, which helped him put his cooking skills into practice. In a heartfelt email to his instructor, he wrote:
“I just wanted to let you know that I received my electric skillet today. I also wanted to say thank you for holding the Zoom class. I really learned a lot. If you ever have another Zoom class like this one, can you please keep me in mind?”
Phillip’s story is a powerful example of how virtual education can overcome physical distance and personal challenges to create real, lasting change. While virtual classes can sometimes feel impersonal, Kansas SNAP-Ed’s approach—mailing materials, incorporating physical activity, and building relationships before and after class—helped participants feel seen, supported, and successful.”