Teaching refugees and immigrants skills to work in the food industry. Inspiring children and adults with developmental disabilities to try — and love — new fruits and vegetables. Connecting farmers in crisis to lifesaving resources like teletherapy services.

Every day, in communities across Michigan and beyond, MSU Extension’s health and nutrition staff makes the extraordinary possible, changing lives for the better. Learn more about our projects, programs, staff, and the work we do.

Articles

New MSU Extension film highlights farmer stress and mental health resources

Published on September 5, 2025
Michigan farmers share powerful stories of resilience and hope in MSU Extension’s new short documentary, Weathering Together, which will premiere on September 10, World Suicide Prevention Day.
Bridging the Summer Hunger Gap

Published on August 8, 2025
Community solutions in action are helping to alleviate food insecurity.
Bright Futures Daycare and Preschool plants seeds of health and hope in Muskegon

Published on July 24, 2025
Some of Muskegon’s youngest community members are taking up gardening to increase community food access and nutrition education.
Policy with lasting impact: Creating change through school wellness

Published on June 11, 2025
Learn about MSU Extension SNAP-Ed’s local approach to building healthy schools and communities.
Michigan Land Grants work to expand tribal members' access to traditional foods

Published on June 6, 2025
A pilot project demonstrated the potential for land-grant institutions to come together in service of tribal communities and the clear demand for culturally grounded food access programs
Local partnership brings life-changing diabetes education to Alma residents

Published on May 12, 2025
MSU Extension and the Lions Club partner to help a group of Gratiot County residents gain the tools and confidence they need to manage their health.
MSU Extension helps launch Michigan’s first-ever Mental Health First Aid Instructor Summit

Published on April 30, 2025
Attracting attendees from all across the state, the event gave MHFA instructors a chance to learn, network and celebrate.
Mandaamin Celebration unites community through corn traditions and wellness

Published on April 21, 2025
Presented by Bay Mills Health Center, Bay Mills Community College, and MSU Extension, the event showed how integrating cultural education and health promotion can foster a sense of community and resilience.
Community coaching for meaningful change

Published on April 10, 2025
MSU Extension SNAP-Ed and community partners leverage mini-grants for greater impact.
Need support for your new year’s wellness goals? Try MSU Extension’s new mindfulness resources

Published on January 21, 2025
MSU Extension’s newly launched Mindfulness for Better Living website features a wealth of information on stress reduction and mindfulness.

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Videos

Weathering Together: A Short Film

Published on September 10, 2025

This short film, produced by Michigan State University Extension, highlights the voices of farmers as they share their experiences navigating the challenges of farm life. By giving farmers a platform to speak openly, the film aims to normalize seeking help and foster a culture of support within rural communities. This project was made possible with funding from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) and the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). MSU Extension works to improve farm personal well-being and income, expand ag-related businesses and improve ag employment, leading to agriculture being one of the strongest industries within Michigan. If you want to support our efforts, donate here: https://give.msu.edu/?sid=18631.
SNAP-Ed: Small Garden, Big Impact

Published on June 27, 2025

With support from MSU Extension, Mason County Eastern Schools have renovated their greenhouse and are bringing fresh produce into the cafeteria and classroom.
SNAP-Ed: Bringing Physical Activity to the Classroom

Published on May 12, 2025

Jennifer Evenson is a Community Nutrition Instructor with Michigan State University Extension based in St. Clair County. As a Community Nutrition Instructor, Jennifer partners with community groups and schools, including East Shore Leadership Academy in Port Huron to provide classes on nutrition, health and physical activity.
SNAP-Ed: School Nutrition Education in Action

Published on May 12, 2025

Candy Thick is a Community Nutrition Instructor with Michigan State University Extension based in Shiawassee County. As a Community Nutrition Instructor, Candy partners with community groups, including Leonard Elementary School to provide classes on nutrition, health, and physical activity.
SNAP-Ed: Adult Transition Students Learn Nutrition and Cooking Skills

Published on April 25, 2025

MSU Extension community nutrition instructor, Vickie Pfeifer, teaches adult transition students nutrition basics and fundamental cooking skills.