FOOD DESERT
There are no major commercial establishments within a two-mile radius of Washington Shores. This starkly illustrates a community that is underserved in jobs, economic growth, wealth and quality of life. This is also a community of 12,000 to 50,000 low income adults and children without ready access to affordable healthy food – defined by the USDA as a “food desert.” A key challenge in our country’s ongoing battle with obesity and poor nutrition, food deserts often include fast-food chains and corner stores that mainly sell processed food of little nutritional value at relatively high prices. For years, residents have asked for greater access to affordable and nutritious food such as fresh fruit and vegetables.
That call has been answered by Hope Center West.
