Program Materials

Providing program participants with handouts or other materials may help empower them to manage their diabetes effectively.

  • For educational programs: take-home handouts help reinforce learning and enable participants to review concepts on their own. They can also serve as references for family members and caregivers, promoting a supportive home environment for diabetes management.
  • For food-based programs: materials like informational inserts can provide a mechanism for educating participants about the foods provided and how to use them or more broadly about approaches for managing their diabetes. If possible, providing participants with a list of foods that they will receive ahead of time may help them plan out their food purchases and meals more effectively.

“I read everything I can get my hands on. Everything helps.”

– Diabetes food pantry participant

Program Handouts

Below are sample materials used by one food bank that may give you ideas for your program. You may choose to use these materials as-is. However, you should also consider your priority audience and whether the materials are appropriate or need to be adapted for your community.

Best practices for inclusive food banks

You may want to consider the following factors to ensure program materials are accessible for all participants.

  • Literacy level: Assess the reading level of your materials and ensure they are accessible for those with low literacy
  • Readability: Ensure materials are clear, concise, and free of excessive jargon
    • Limit large amounts of text
    • Use plenty of white space and graphics
    • Use larger font sizes and clear formatting
    • Ensure that text is well-organized with headings, bullet points, and ample spacing
  • Language: Make sure your materials are in the appropriate language(s) for the population you’re planning to serve
  • Color contrast: Use high-contrast color schemes for text and background to aid visibility, especially for individuals with visual impairments. Avoid using color alone to convey information
  • Images: When using photos or graphics of people, include diverse racial/ethnic backgrounds and/or people that represent your target audience
  • Cultural appropriateness: Include examples and scenarios that are relevant to different cultural and socio-economic backgrounds and avoid stereotypes