By Arnell Hinkle

“Bodegas, tiendas, street vendors, produce stands, and guys on the road selling fruit are common in many communities of color. Across the street from the hotel I was staying in was a corner store that primarily sold liquor. However, upon closer inspection there was a cooler full of fresh beansprouts, bok choy, eggs, and even fruit. The locals in this Chinatown neighborhood don’t have a grocery store nearby, but they can buy a limited selection of fresh vegetables at the corner store or get prepared vegetables at any of the local Asian restaurants. I counted 12 such restaurants in a two block area - Chinese, Vietnamese, Japanese, and even Burmese. It seemed to me that the real danger to community food availability in this area of Washington, DC was the redevelopment and gentrification that was going on…lofts, condos, and chain restaurants driving out the locals, and driving up the real estate prices (even in this down economy). It made me wonder what redevelopment without gentrification would look like. It also made me wonder if studying the concept of “Food Deserts” will lead to more food availability in neighborhoods, or to more middle class people making their careers on this hot, new academic topic?”
From: Community Food Coach @ http://www.communityfoodcoach.com

Do you live in a “Food Desert”? If so, share your story. If not, tell me about the healthy, affordable food in your neighborhood. Share your thoughts. I look forward to hearing from you.

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