![A couple holds hands as they stroll. [credit: uf/ifas]](/media/sfylifasufledu/sarasota/images/banner1650x470/2017_Comms_T4_handHolding_ifas.jpg)
FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES
![a uf/ifas extension sarasota county staff member instructs as a participant in a canning class works with jarred items. [credit: uf/ifas extension sarasota county]](/media/sfylifasufledu/sarasota/images/fcs/2023_WaterBath12-300x180.png)
Our programs focus on building stronger communities by building stronger families. We promote economic security and individual, family and community well-being in myriad areas. Click on a topic below to learn more.
Sustainable home environments
- Ants
- Bed Bugs
- Cleaning Without Chemicals (PDF)
- Home Safety
- Keeping It Clean: Controlling Mildew
- Other Housing and Home Environment
- Pantry and Stored Food Pests
If you are planning to be away from your home for a month or more, there are steps you should take to protect your home while you are gone. Find out what you can do to prevent these problems with our Closing Your Florida Home webpage.
Nutrition, health, and food safety
Most of us can benefit from learning more about nutrition and foods. Get started by clicking on the links below.
Family economic security
Parenting skills
More skills
- Caring for aging family members (external link)
- Cancer prevention (external link)
![American Heart Month banner, with colorful fruit and vegetable border [credit: heart.org]](https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/files/2026/02/American-640x357.jpg)