Which of the following programs is more sustainable?

1. A funder gives money to groups that will buy food and distribute it to low-income families.
2. A funder gives money to groups that will create community gardens with resident participants in low-income neighborhoods who will continue the program in years to come.

Given the realities of international financial volatility, funding for public health programs may be abruptly discontinued, leaving programs unfinished and participants underserved. Public health professionals need to anticipate how a program will be sustained when the funding or program term ends. Not only is this better for the program itself, but it provides more lasting benefits for society.

Read the following scenario:

You receive funding for your program (SPP). After 3 years, the funding ends. Consider how you can sustain your program past the initial funding of your program (SPP), and determine the long-term impact it might have on the community.

By Day 4

Post an explanation of the importance of sustainability to your chosen public health program (SPP). Then, explain the strategies you might incorporate into your program to ensure sustainability in post-funding years. Finally, explain how your public health program, if implemented, could promote long-term social change.