Document Reach

Understand how to document reach for a PSE Site Activity in PEARS.

Reach is the unduplicated number of people who come in direct contact with one or more PSE changes at a site over the course of a year. Accurate reach data helps demonstrate the scope and impact of your PSE efforts.

Screenshot: The reach section of the Changes page on a PSE Site Activity showing the Reach Method dropdown with Measured, Estimated, and Unknown options, and the Total Reach numeric input field

Key Principles

• Site-level reporting — Reach should be reported at the site level only. Reach figures should not exceed the total priority population at the location.

• Direct contact — Count individuals directly touched by an intervention. For example, count those who actually participate in a school garden, not the entire student body.

• Unduplicated counts — If someone encounters multiple PSE strategies or contacts the same strategy multiple times, they count as one person only.

Measurement Methods

Select the method that best describes how the reach figure was determined:

• Measured — Data from reliable sources such as attendance records, surveys, or observations.

• Estimated — Reasoned projections based on available data.

• Unknown — Appropriate when no data or basis exists for estimation.

Reach by PSE Strategy

PEARS includes guidance for documenting reach across PSE strategy categories. The reach definition varies by strategy type — for example:

• Early childhood care and education — Count children directly affected by the PSE change.

• Community or school gardens — Count individuals who participate in the garden program.

• School meals — Count students who receive meals affected by the change.

• Vending machines — Count individuals with access to the modified vending options.

• Written policies — Count individuals covered by the policy.

TIP: Refer to your organization's SNAP-Ed guidance for detailed reach definitions by strategy type.