UF/IFAS Books & Cooks

Program Overview

Books & Cooks is a family-based literacy, nutrition, and parenting program delivered to:

1. Families who have low income
2. Families with at least one child in grades K-5 who are reading below grade level
3. Families who reside in select Florida counties

Since 2023, Books & Cooks has helped nearly 500 families improve their literacy, nutrition, and parenting behaviors. Books & Cooks is conducted once each semester, where families attend seven weekly, two-hour, in-person educational sessions, participate in two two-hour community events, and complete six weeks of online activities. To support families as they build their literacy, nutrition, and parenting skills, families are provided with free, grade-appropriate, nutrition-themed books, nutritious food, and a take-home curriculum guide. Families who participate have the option to enroll in a research study and are compensated for completing brief surveys periodically.

Cost Info