Improving the function of a high obesity program: Findings from community-engaged Mississippi Delta focus groups

In this policy and practice brief, Mississippi State University Extension Services applies a coalition-driven approach to addressing the prevalence of obesity in communities in the Mississippi Delta through its High Obesity Program, funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Focus groups were conducted with coali­tion members from six counties to evaluate efforts by this program. The evaluation team used content and thematic analysis to report on coalition activi­ties. Some the barriers coalition members identified were limited access to healthy foods and the need for more assistance from program staff. Action items were developed and implemented in re­sponse to focus group feedback. These items included enhanced communication tools and coalition trainings. This evaluation brief describes some of the common challenges in coalition build­ing and innovative ways to improve them. Our focus group findings are also valuable to public health scientists and practitioners working in rural communities.