The Los Angeles City Council took a significant step on Tuesday, August 22, by endorsing a motion that aims to extend a nutrition initiative into underserved areas of the city, specifically the Harbor region and South Los Angeles, in order to combat the challenge of limited access to fresh and healthy food in so-called “food deserts.”
This motion seeks to broaden the reach of the Healthy Neighborhood Market Network (HNMN), an existing program designed to guarantee convenient access to fresh produce for residents within a half-mile radius of their neighborhoods, particularly in the areas of Watts and Harbor City. The City Council’s unanimous approval of this motion, which was introduced by Councilman Tim McOsker representing Council District 15 encompassing these communities, underscores the recognition of the pressing need to address this issue.
Councilman McOsker emphasized the significance of this expansion, stating, “Where you live shouldn’t determine your access to healthful dietary options. This program will benefit District 15 in two pivotal ways: by offering healthier food alternatives for our residents and by empowering small businesses. The essence of the Healthy Neighborhood Market Network program lies not in promoting large corporate grocery chains, but in providing the means for our local community businesses to thrive as successful food entrepreneurs.”
The motion asserts that “food deserts primarily impact low-income neighborhoods and communities of color and infringe upon access to healthy diet options in these areas.”
Originally launched in 2016, the HNMN program has been facilitating training and guidance for store owners, as well as upgrading local stores, with the aim of transforming them into hubs for affordable, healthful food. The program’s achievements thus far include completing six projects, delivering training to over 50 store owners, boosting average produce revenues by 124%, and increasing average weekly profit for participating markets by $1,453, as stated in the motion.
The motion outlines, “These markets are providing critical access for residents in these areas to healthier food options and increasing the economic vitality of their communities. By expanding the existing program into underserved areas of Council District 15, the HNMN program can enhance food options in these communities and build toward a healthier future for all Angelenos.”
The Economic and Workforce Development Department will provide a forthcoming report containing a comprehensive plan for expanding the program within Council District 15, with a particular focus on the neighborhoods of Harbor City and Watts. Collaboratively working with Councilman McOsker’s office and local stakeholders, the department will identify potential markets or locations for implementing the program, ensuring both community support and operational viability for the participants involved.
