Quantitative Evaluation

The quantitative evaluation involves two methods to evaluate process and programmatic achievements of the Rural Child Poverty Nutrition Center (RCPNC) funded projects. The first method involves comparing publicly available data between the funded sites and other sites that were not funded but were similar in characteristics. This quasi-experimental matching model will measure the impact of the grant projects on participation rates in the major United States Department of Agriculture Food & Nutrition Service (USDA-FNS) nutrition programs such as the School Breakfast Program, the National School Lunch Program, and the Summer Food Service Program.

The second method involves measuring changes in knowledge and attitudes of available nutrition assistance programs. To better understand the extent to which grantee efforts result in changes in perceptions about food and access in the population being served, three waves of survey data will be collected from counties targeted by the grant. This survey was conducted before projects started and will be conducted at a midpoint and at the end of funding. The survey includes specific questions assessing knowledge and awareness of food programs, issues of access and transportation, as well as stigma associated with accessing local and community supports that target food insecurity.

Facts sheets from the first wave of surveys were developed for each of the target counties based on the data collected.

Click on the PDF link below to view these fact sheets:

RCPNC County Fact Sheets Wave 1.pdf