| Sumario: | The objective of this research is to use transdisciplinary, cross-sector, collaborative approaches to develop and evaluate community-based programs serving individuals who are eligible to receive food assistance benefits. Food and nutrition security are influenced by complex systems-level factors, and as such, a systems approach utilizing transdisciplinary models of collaboration are warranted to evaluate programs and interventions in these areas. The transdisciplinary partnership between Green Mountain Evaluation and the Figueroa Interdisciplinary Group (FIG) research laboratory utilizes a collaborative, implementation science, and participatory approach to evaluate community-based programs focused on improving food access and nutrition. Participants include online shoppers who are income-eligible food assistance beneficiaries and clients at a food pantry in New York City. Programs include an online grocery shopping and meal kit platform for income-eligible food assistance beneficiaries and a food pantry-based community-supported agriculture (CSA) program. Mixed methods (qualitative and quantitative) evaluation approaches were used to inform and assess the development, implementation, and outcomes of these interventions. Data collection methods included interviews, pre- and post-program surveys, Veggie Meter assessments, and 24-hour dietary recalls. Formative evaluations informed the development and refinement of programs to ensure offerings were accessible and tailored to the target audiences. Process and outcome evaluations are ongoing. These evaluations are the result of transdisciplinary, cross-sector collaborations between Green Mountain Evaluation, the FIG research laboratory at Cornell University, and multiple other organizations across university, industry, community, and state agencies. Addressing food and nutrition security requires expertise and collaboration across a variety of sectors including program evaluation, academic research, nutrition, food systems, education, policy, media, food assistance, and Cooperative Extension. Collaborative, cross-sector, transdisciplinary approaches are the most appropriate lens to address complex, systems-level public health and nutrition objectives and to strengthen the evidence base of community-based programs focusing on health and nutrition. USDA
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