Obesity Group V June 13-14, 2008

1) Public Policy Problem There is inadequate availability, affordability, and access to fresh produce and other healthy foods in many vulnerable communities throughout the nation. This problem can be referred to as “food deserts.”

2) Rationale for Pursuing this Problem Research has demonstrated: –connections between poor neighborhoods, poor access to healthy food and poor health outcomes –an increased prevalence of diet-related chronic diseases and mortality in low-income neighborhoods without supermarkets –construction of supermarkets can also be part of economic development, creating both new jobs and new dollars

June 13-14, 2008

3) Dimensions of the problem Regional variation in problem and appropriate solutions Dissenting views on ideal funding structure Current zoning barriers Perceptions of profitability and longtime feasibility Concerns about crime and safety in poor neighborhoods Barriers to transportation

4) Stakeholders supporters Supermarket chains IFIC (food industry) Local farmers Professional organizations: APHA, AMA, Nutritionist societies, ANA Neighborhood Associations Community-based health organizations Faith-based organizations

4) Stakeholders supporters Academic institutions and think tanks Foundations, including RWJF Voluntary associations, e.g., American Heart Assoc., American Diabetes Assoc., National Kidney Foundation, IOTF, NASSO, Anti-hunger organizations

4) Stakeholders supporters NAACP, NOW, other civil rights, feminist, human rights groups Health insurers Also discussed: Government agencies with an interest in issue, including CDC, NIH, USDA

5) Stakeholders opponents Fast food companies Supermarket chains Libertarians and fiscal conservatives City planners NIMBY activists

6) Action Plan Create federal grants to States/Tribal organizations to develop, implement and evaluate appropriate local solutions to “food deserts.” Some examples include: –Supermarkets –“Mobile markets” –Expansions of farmer’s markets Grantees are required to use community participatory processes and address local economic development