Review the resources and tackle the assignments below before joining your class in Charlotte in February.  Everything in the “Homework” section, including reviewing the Making Ends Meet materials and watching the instructional video, is required. Many additional resources are also included below for you to explore before or after session.

Session Workbook

Your HHS session workbook can be found through the link below.  Explore the workbook in advance and make sure you have it accessible throughout the HHS session.

Class 30 HHS Session Workbook

HHS Session Homework–Required

Review the Making Ends Meet materials and the resources that follow before the session kicks off on February 7.

 

Making Ends Meet Simulation Preparation  This is your most important homework
Thursday afternoon’s program will include the “Making Ends Meet” simulation.  To get the most out of this exercise, please do the following before before heading to Charlotte:

  • Review the simulation instructions and materials under “Thursday Program Materials” in the Session Workbook. Get familiar with your assigned scenario, and start thinking about your shopping list.
  • Watch this 22-minute Making Ends Meet instructional video explaining simulation instructions and resources.
  • Review the resources linked below and be prepared to ask any questions about WIC or SNAP or food insecurity in general during Thursday’s “Food Insecurity” presentation or during the simulation instructions segment.
  • Consider volunteering to serve as your team’s Shopping Navigator or Expense Tracker.

 

Making Ends Meet Simulation Resources

Explore these online resources in advance. It will be helpful for everyone to also have access to them during the simulation on Thursday afternoon.

 

Review these additional required resources before February 7.

HHS Session Homework–Optional

 

SNAP Challenge (Optional)

The SNAP Challenge was introduced during the Education Session. Below are some guidelines and resources you may find helpful if you choose to take the SNAP Challenge before the February HHS session.  This is completely optional, but those who have done it have found it valuable leading into the conversations about food insecurity and the Making Ends Meet simulation that are part of the HHS program.

 

SNAP Challenge Guidelines

  • Define your time frame—most people do a week, but even a few days is impactful.
  • Calculate your budget based on ~$4.00/person per day.
  • Plan your meals and shopping within your budget.
  • Eat only what you are able to purchase within your budget. If you use items you already have at home, make sure you account for their cost in your tracking.
  • Keep track of your spending, your meals, and your reactions (physical, mental, emotional) during the Challenge.

 

SNAP Challenge Resources

HHS Session Resources–Recommended

The following links are resources recommended by session presenters, planning committee members, and past LNC speakers. Exploring those that interest you will enrich your experience both during and after the February Health and Human Services Session. The required pieces from above are also included in their appropriate categories below.

 

Food Insecurity and Additional SNAP and WIC Resources

 

Healthcare Costs, Data, and Report Cards

 

Poverty, Equity, Economic Mobility, and Health

 

State and Community Resources

 

Behavioral Health, Substance Use, and Violence Prevention

 

Aging and End-of-Life Resources

Local Tips

Members of Class 30 and LNC alumni shared their suggestions for dining, shopping, and exploring.  Enjoy your time in Charlotte!

LNC Class 30 and Alumni Local Recommendations

Session Follow-Up Materials

For completion AFTER the HHS Session