SAN ANTONIO \u2013 Food insecurity remains a pressing issue in Bexar County, with 14% of residents struggling to access enough food, according to the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District. <\/p>\n
The situation is even more dire for children, as one in five faces food insecurity.<\/p>\n
This year has been especially challenging for many families, but a unique city resource center is stepping up to help, particularly during the holiday season.<\/p>\n
Located deep in the South Side neighborhood on Ruidosa Street near Roosevelt Avenue, the Resource Center at Villa Coronado is a city-run facility unlike any other.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re the first health department in all the United States to offer a resource center,\u201d said Paula Hooda, a data analyst for the center.<\/p>\n
The center was strategically placed in this area because of the high need among families and seniors.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis area of town experiences higher rates of chronic disease, and we know that,\u201d Hooda said. \u201dFood insecurity is a challenge for a lot of families that live here, especially older adults and families with younger children. And we really wanted to create this place so that it\u2019s community-centered, community-based, where it\u2019s directly in the heart of the community.\u201d<\/p>\n
Over the past year, the Resource Center has seen an increase in the number of people struggling to make ends meet and seeking necessities.<\/p>\n
\u201cFrom produce to formula to even diapers \u2014 these are the items of most necessity in this area that is considered a food desert,\u201d Hernandez said.<\/p>\n
Metro Health officials acknowledge that food insecurity is a widespread issue in San Antonio.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe have seen that there\u2019s an increased demand for fresh produce, for infant formula, and this is especially true for older adults and families with young children,\u201d Hooda said.<\/p>\n
Candy Diaz, a resident who helps seniors at the center, emphasized the center\u2019s importance.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Resource Center is a great hub for our community because of the things that they have available through the city,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Diaz hopes similar centers can be established in other neighborhoods. \u201cMy vision, my wish, would be that we can do this in every community,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Metro Health hopes to open additional facilities in the future. For now, the Resource Center at Villa Coronado<\/a> is open to anyone in need.<\/p>\n The center also offers health classes, assistance with utility bills, and a public access computer room.<\/p>\n