Advocates Brainstorm Food Policies in Prince George’s County

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Almost 15% of the population in Prince George’s County is Latino, many of which live in areas with low access to fresh fruits and vegetables. Groups like the Food Equity Council, a volunteer nonprofit food policy organization, work to improve access to healthy, affordable, sustainable, culturally appropriate and safe food options in the county for individuals of all socioeconomic status.

The Food Equity Council held its first Food Equity Forum on Sept. 18, bringing together private farms and businesses, local government agencies, nonprofits and other community stakeholders to look for ways to improve access to healthy food.

A mobile food market that accepts SNAP benefits is one part of the solution that is already in action in Prince George’s County, but stakeholders want to see more helpful food policies in the future.

According to an article in The Gazette, the meeting ended with breakout sessions addressing healthy food retail, nutrition education and anti-hunger and local food production. Data taken from the breakout sessions will be incorporated into the Food Equity Council’s policy agenda moving forward.