TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) – The Frenchtown Neighborhood Improvement Association is kicking off its 12-week Food Advocacy Program to increase access to fresh, healthy food in some of Tallahassee’s underserved communities.
The program, now in its fifth year, focuses on residents in Frenchtown, Griffin Heights, the Bond community, the Southside and Providence. It’s designed to address food deserts, where residents often face limited access to fresh and affordable food close to home.
When you walk out in the street, you should see be able to see fresh, local food,” said Program trainer Erica Bradley.
Participants will learn about nutrition, food policy and gardening while developing skills to advocate for improved food access in their neighborhoods.
Bradley said many of the targeted neighborhoods are located near local colleges and universities, where food options are available on campus. However, she said residents in surrounding communities often have fewer opportunities to purchase fresh food nearby.
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She added that being equipped to plant, grow and harvest community gardens is a way to expand access to fresh produce.
“It makes it more affordable. It’s healthier for us because we’re probably eating more seasonal foods, and also when you’re advocating for change, sometimes you make the worst decisions when you’re hungry,” she said. “So the simplest thing you can do is have good food near you.”
After completing the 12-week program, participants can apply what they have learned through community projects and a six-month mentorship program. Bradley said past participants have gone on to develop mobile apps, launch businesses and create programs for local youth.
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