Increasing access to fresh produce by partnering urban farms with corner stores: a pilot study in a low‐income urban setting

Abstract

Residents in low‐income areas often rely on corner stores for food, but these storeowners seldom stock fresh produce. Many urban farms are looking to provide better access to produce for low‐income consumers. Our objective was to partner two urban farms with two corner stores in Baltimore, MD to distribute fresh produce. In summer 2012, we conducted a pre‐post evaluation using semi‐structured interviews coupled with distribution and sales data. Partnership #1 paired a 6‐acre urban farm with a store that served commuters. Produce was delivered all 5 weeks with the mean total quantity of produce delivered being 38 (SD 16) items. On average each week, 6 (SD 2) different types of produce were brought into the store, of which 2 (SD 2) types sold out. Partnership #2 paired a ¼‐acre urban farm with a store that served local residents, and was promoted by the neighborhood association. Produce was delivered all 5 weeks with the mean total quantity of produce delivered being 77 (SD 12) items. On average each week, 10 (SD 1) different types of produce were brought into the store, of which 6 (SD 2) types sold out. Partnering urban farms and corner stores for produce distribution is feasible. For future programs to be successful, strong community support appears vital to sustain produce sales.Grant Funding Source: NICHD U54HD070725