Washington County Extension Office

Washington County Extension Office The Washington County Extension Office provides practical education you can trust. Mrs. Lionell J. Hinds
Extension Agent
662-334-2670 (Dept.)
662-334-2671 (Dept.

Jennifer Russell
Extension Agent
[email protected]
Extension Agent/County Coordinator
Specialty Area: Child Development, Nutrition & Food Safety
662-334-2669

Madison McPherson
Agricultural Extension Agent/4-H Agent
[email protected]
662-334-2669

Mr. Fax)
[email protected]

Ms. Kesalyn Peoples
Office Associate
[email protected]

Community seeking to make a difference! Join us.
07/29/2026

Community seeking to make a difference! Join us.

Kids in the Kitchen: Learning Through Cooking and FunSome of Washington County’s youth wrapped up an exciting week by sp...
07/17/2026

Kids in the Kitchen: Learning Through Cooking and Fun

Some of Washington County’s youth wrapped up an exciting week by spending two engaging days in the kitchen during Kids in the Kitchen. Throughout the program, participants developed valuable life skills while having fun, building confidence, practicing teamwork, and learning the importance of healthy eating.

To keep the youth engaged between cooking activities, they participated in games such as Tic-Tac-Toe and Co****le. These activities encouraged critical thinking, strategy, teamwork, and friendly competition as students thoughtfully planned their next moves while enjoying time together.

Day One focused on preparing a delicious and nutritious brunch. Before cooking began, students became familiar with a variety of kitchen equipment, learning the safe and proper use of blenders, ovens, box shredders, vegetable peelers, and other essential kitchen tools. They also discussed the importance of kitchen safety, proper sanitation, accurate measuring techniques, and safe food handling practices.

Students learned how to make French toast using both 100% whole wheat bread and traditional white bread, allowing them to compare healthier alternatives while enjoying familiar favorites. They practiced cracking eggs as they prepared scrambled eggs and learned about preventing cross-contamination, emphasizing the importance of washing their hands before and after handling raw eggs. Grilled sausage and orange juice completed the meal. Brunch was a tremendous success, with the homemade French toast quickly becoming the class favorite!

Day Two centered on nutrition and making balanced food choices. Students explored the MyPlate food groups while creating their own pita pockets—or, as many affectionately called them, “pita bowls.” As they assembled their meals, they identified the food groups represented, including grains, protein, dairy, vegetables, and fruits. They also created colorful fruit kabobs customized to their individual tastes, enjoyed healthy carrot raisin cake cookies, and prepared refreshing Shamrock Shakes made with lime sherbet, milk, and bananas.

By the end of the two-day experience, the youth had gained much more than cooking skills. They learned how to safely use kitchen equipment, follow recipes, measure ingredients accurately, practice proper sanitation, work cooperatively with others, think critically, and make healthier food choices they can continue using at home with their families.

As the week came to a close, we would be remiss if we did not recognize three outstanding Washington County 4-H members for their dedication and leadership. Their willingness to assist, encourage, and guide our younger participants helped the program run smoothly and created a welcoming learning environment for everyone.

As these remarkable young ladies prepare to begin the next chapter of their educational journeys, we celebrate their accomplishments and thank them for their service. While they will certainly be missed at the Washington County Extension Office, we are excited for all that lies ahead. We know that Jackson State University, The University of Southern Mississippi, and Mississippi University for Women (The W) are gaining some of Washington County’s brightest young leaders. We wish each of them continued success as they pursue their dreams and make a positive impact on the world. Feel free to like and share.


Youth Making Moves This Summer: Washington County Sewing CampOver the past two days, the youth of Washington County disc...
07/15/2026

Youth Making Moves This Summer: Washington County Sewing Camp

Over the past two days, the youth of Washington County discovered that sewing is more than creating something with fabric—it’s a skill that builds patience, confidence, creativity, and problem-solving.

Camp participants were introduced to the basic parts of the sewing machine and learned how each component plays an important role in producing quality work. Before sewing with fabric, students practiced essential techniques on paper, including sewing straight lines, curved lines, and pivoting accurately at corners to develop precision and confidence.

As their skills grew, students cut and assembled fabric to create their own accent pillows. Along the way, they learned how to place fabric with the right sides together, sew with a consistent ¼-inch seam allowance, pivot neatly at each corner, leave an opening for stuffing, trim the corners for a professional finish, thread a hand-sewing needle, and complete their projects using a slip stitch.

What made the experience even more rewarding was watching the students’ creativity come to life. Many were so excited about their new skills that they began designing and creating additional projects of their own, demonstrating that learning had quickly turned into inspiration.

A special thank you goes to Iris McGee for generously providing the numbered sewing bags. Our office staff Kassie Peoples and Valendoria White were able to fill each kit with the basic sewing tools every student needs to begin their sewing journey, giving them resources they can continue to use long after camp has ended.

We also extend our sincere appreciation to Mr. Sam for generously donating refreshing watermelons for the students to enjoy during sewing camp and for our upcoming KIK class. It was the perfect addition to lunch, providing a healthy, refreshing treat that the children thoroughly enjoyed down to the last rind. His kindness and generosity helped make the day even more special.

A heartfelt thank you is extended to Ella McPherson, Washington County 4-H Volunteer, for her unwavering support throughout the camp. Whether equipment needed troubleshooting, sewing machine needles needed rethreading, or students simply needed an extra helping hand and words of encouragement, Ella was there every step of the way. Your willingness to serve behind the scenes ensured that each child could continue learning with confidence. Thank you for your dedication, patience, and commitment to making this sewing camp a success.

The future is bright for these young makers. This summer, Washington County youth are truly making moves—learning valuable life skills, expressing their creativity, and gaining the confidence to turn simple ideas into lasting accomplishments, one stitch at a time.

Feel free to like and share.

Last week some youth from Washington county learned safety skills in the kitchen. Kids in the kitchen teaches young chil...
07/08/2026

Last week some youth from Washington county learned safety skills in the kitchen. Kids in the kitchen teaches young children to eat healthier meals and snacks as a result of hands-on cooking experiences.

This group of youth prepared quesadillas with grilled chicken, vegetables and white cheese which is better for you. It was paired with fruit pizza… which always seems to be a big hit. The more color the more nutrients are found.

The second day they prepared fruit parfait and homemade pizza. Pizza can be made healthy depending on the toppings. Spinach used on pizza and quesadillas. Feel free to like and share.


Such a great day to attend A Wisdom & Wellness Expo. Honoring Older Americans Month & Celebrating Community Action Month...
05/29/2026

Such a great day to attend A Wisdom & Wellness Expo. Honoring Older Americans Month & Celebrating Community Action Month.

Participants enjoyed making Salt Free Spice Blends

For more information go to www.extension.msstate.edu and look for Publication 3586



Feel free to like and share

What a beautiful way to use scraps. In quilting you never throw anything away. Often times we say one man’s trash is ano...
05/15/2026

What a beautiful way to use scraps. In quilting you never throw anything away. Often times we say one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Try your hand at quilting as you join us every Wednesday from 12:00 to 2:00. If you are interested in joining us call out office 662-334-2669 or email [email protected].

Yesterday MSU Washington County MHV Club learned why exercise is important and how to Sit and Be Fit at any fitness leve...
05/13/2026

Yesterday MSU Washington County MHV Club learned why exercise is important and how to Sit and Be Fit at any fitness level. Jaylan Woods, Senior Fitness Instructor of Indianola Wellness Center did a live demonstration as members took part. Jaylan shared they provide live cook classes and often provide exercise classes of all types. Today was a great resource to our members as information was shared to one of our surrounding counties.

If you are interested in joining MHV to help make a difference and learn please call 662-334-2669 or email [email protected]



“Cooking with the Doctors”The City of Greenville and MS State Extension Service of Washington County partnered with Doct...
05/12/2026

“Cooking with the Doctors”

The City of Greenville and MS State Extension Service of Washington County partnered with Doctors to share ways to cook on a budget while eating healthy.

Doctors involved participants in the process by cutting vegetables and grating garlic and other herbs to flavor food.

No salt used and vegetables cooked but not over cooked.

Participants learned how to cook healthy meals on a budget.

Use simple everyday ingredients.

Plan meals for long term health.

Participants were served chicken thigh without skin, broccoli and sweet potatoes.

So much more can be done when we partner and work together. Stronger communities are formed.



Last week this little cutie experienced cauliflower for the first time. It is key to introduce healthy foods to our chil...
05/04/2026

Last week this little cutie experienced cauliflower for the first time. It is key to introduce healthy foods to our children early on. As we do they learn to develop the right taste of foods which yields better health. I love this picture because the mother said she likes it. Children will eat what we introduce them to. She eats a lot of fruits and vegetables according to her mom. I wish I had waited until the end there was none left and mom wiped her mouth before I could go get my phone. Creamy mashed potato cauliflower give it a try.
Inbox me for recipe.

Address

148 N Edison Street
Greenville, MS
38701

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+16623342670

Website

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