Data collection and evaluation is an essential component of any intervention. When evaluating the impact of the initial SBHC Food Security Learning Network efforts, the SBHC’s focused on collecting the following metrics:

• The number of students and families reached through the interventions
• The number screenings for food insecurity conducted by the SBHC
• The number of referrals to federal nutrition programs or other food program supports
• The number of students or families enrolled in nutrition programs
• Changes in food security status reported by students or families
• Changes in fruit and vegetable consumption reported by students or families
• Increased engagement with preventative care or SBHC services as measured by the number of new consents for SBHC services or well child visits.
•  The number and type of partner organizations

In addition to quantitative data collection, SBHC’s found it important to collect process measures as well. These included:

• Increased access to healthy foods for families through establishment of a novel access point, increased service locations, or community partnerships.
• Improved SBHC process for screening and referring families to resources, in addition to increased awareness of available resources by SBHC staff, school staff, and families.
• Increased awareness and use of SBHC services through food security outreach and access initiatives.

We are still determining the best tools and methods to collect data that can meaningfully describe the impact of integrating nutrition and food assistance in SBHC services. Some example tools and resources are listed below and will continue to be refined. As you begin this type of intervention in your own SBHC some important considerations for evaluation are included here.