Millions of Americans live in food deserts—areas where fresh, healthy food is hard to find. Without nearby grocery stores, many rely on fast food or convenience stores that offer limited, often unhealthy options. This lack of access contributes to higher rates of diet-related health issues, especially in low-income and marginalized communities. Addressing food deserts means tackling transportation barriers, supporting local food initiatives, and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to eat well.
What Is a Food Desert?
Food deserts are a widespread issue in the U.S, affecting millions of people. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), about 19 million Americans live in areas with limited access to affordable, nutritious food. These areas are most common in low-income urban neighborhoods and rural communities, where grocery stores are scarce, and public transportation is limited.
The YouTube video, "What is a Food Desert and Who Does it Impact Most?" from FOX 5 analyzes this issue of food deserts around Atlanta, Georgia. A recent study by researchers at Emory University found that Atlanta’s lowest-income, predominantly Black communities consistently have limited access to fresh produce compared to other parts of the city.
Food Deserts in America
Read the article here: https://socialwork.tulane.edu/blog/food-deserts-in-america/
What are your thoughts on food deserts? Is it hard to find fresh, healthy food near you? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
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March 24th is World Tuberculosis Day
*Taken from the WHO's campaign page*
"Each year we commemorate World TB Day to raise public awareness about the devastating health, social and economic consequences of tuberculosis (TB) and to step up efforts to end the global TB epidemic.
The date marks the day in 1882 when Dr. Robert Koch announced that he had discovered the bacterium that causes TB, which opened the way towards diagnosing and curing this disease."
You can learn more about World Tuberculosis Day here:
https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-tb-day
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Empower Tomorrow: Youth Advocacy Summit 2025
This FREE conference will focus on Leadership Advocacy Skills: Understanding School to Adult Life Transition and Healthcare/ Wellness Goals
Join us in person to learn strategies and resources from SPAN!
There will be a variety of Exhibitors providing resources.
***PLEASE READ***
Parents and caregivers (who can attend separate tracks) must accompany the conference with their young adult/youth. SPAN does not provide support to individuals, but they are welcome to provide their support person.
***DISCLAIMER***
No youth/young adults can be left unattended or dropped off at the event at any time.
Contact Nicole Pratt at npratt@spanadvocacy.org for any questions.
Date and Time: Saturday, April 26 · 8:30am - 3pm EDT
Location: Mercer County College Conference Center
1200 Old Trenton Road West Windsor Township, NJ 08550
Register To Attend: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/empower-tomorrow-youth-advocacy-summit-2025-tickets-1236331644229?aff=ebdsoporgprofile
The SPAN Youth Chat
Join us virtually on April 2nd from 4:15 to 5:00 PM. Join Jeremy Hayer and the Youth Engagement Team, as we chat about independent living as a young adult. We'll cover everything from finding accessible housing, to budgeting and rent, and much more!
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Resources...
Link to SPAN's website: www.spanadvocacy.org
Link to SPAN's Youth in the Know Resource Page: Youth in the Know
We're here for you! Call SPAN if you need assistance: 1-800-654-7726.
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