Pontotoc County Family & Consumer Sciences

07/16/2026

Family meals are about more than food - they're one of the simplest, most powerful ways to strengthen families & communities. Eat together this week!

I recently had the opportunity to share with the Sunrise Rotary Club about the research behind family meals and why they matter.

Decades of research show that something as simple as sharing a meal together is linked to stronger relationships, better communication, improved mental health, healthier eating habits, and greater community connection.

At OSU Extension, we teach nutrition, food safety, and cooking—but at the heart of our work is helping people build stronger relationships and healthier communities.

Thank you, Ada Sunrise Rotary for the opportunity to be with you!

06/22/2026

Stay tuned for a new article this week!

This article is the first in a summer series focused on helping local families find practical ways to balance work and home life during this busy season.

06/22/2026

Fantastic showing from community volunteers to make this a success! Huge shoutout to Amy Lannom Kaiser and First United Bank for partnering with us!

Nearly 70 Upward Bound students gained hands-on experience managing real-life finances during the Reality Money Check.

06/16/2026

🌱📚Unearth a Story: The Sweet Potato Journey🍠

Last week at the Ada Public Library's Summer Reading Program, Unearth a Story, young learners became both explorers and chefs as they uncovered the story of the sweet potato from soil to supper.

Participants learned how sweet potatoes grow underground, where they come from, and how they make their way to our plates. Then the fun really began! Students "cooked" their own sweet potato by scooping, mashing, and customizing it with seasonings of their choice.

But the learning didn't stop there. After creating their own sweet potato recipe, students became storytellers by writing and illustrating the story of their sweet potato's journey.

Through hands-on cooking, literacy, and agriculture education, students discovered that every food has a story v ting to be unearthed.

A big thank you to the Ada Public Library for inviting us to be part of another wonderful summer of learning!

05/15/2026

FCS Friday: Asking for help

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and we're spotlighting one of the most powerful coping skills out there: asking for help.

At some point, every single one of us will need to ask for help and get support. The real skill is noticing when — whether that's feeling constantly down, pulling away from people you love, or carrying something that feels too heavy to hold alone.

Reaching out isn't a weakness. It's one of the bravest things you can do, and it's a sign that you believe you deserve better- because you do.

Talk to a parent, coach, teacher, or another adult you trust. And know that 988 (call or text) is always there as a tool for crisis or support.

05/08/2026

FCS Friday: Spring Clean Your Finances! Spring is the perfect time to refresh more than just your home--take a look at your finances too!💸🌷

A little financial "cleaning" now can lead to a stress-free future! 🌿

05/08/2026

Today we proudly recognize just a few of the incredible groups and organizations the Extension Service serves alongside as advisors. Through meaningful partnerships, impactful programming, and dedicated volunteer support, these collaborations play a vital role in strengthening the connection between the university and our communities. Together, we are making a difference.

05/05/2026

Did you know? Family & Consumer Sciences with OSU Extension helps people build real-life skills—from cooking healthy meals to managing money and supporting strong families.

We’re proud to help Oklahomans thrive at every stage of life by bringing research-based information home to you. 💛

Stay connected for tips, classes, and resources designed to support you and your family! 🏡

05/05/2026

Foodie Friday: Summer Soups ☀️

Yes... we're making SOUP in the summer 😄
But hear me out-these are light, fresh, and made in the slow cooker so your kitchen stays cool!

🍋 Lemon Chicken Orzo
🥕 Beefy Veggie Soup
🍑 + a surprise Peach Dump Cake

Easy, delicious, and perfect for busy families!
Let me know if you want the recipes!👇

05/01/2026

OHCE Week is next week! Stop by and see us during our Open House all week!

Communities across Oklahoma will recognize the impact of Oklahoma Home and Community Education during OHCE Week, May 3–9, celebrating an organization that has strengthened families and communities for nearly a