Food deserts are starting to become an issue in Montgomery County. Data shows that 16,100 MoCo individuals live in food deserts. MoCo is assisting by implementing FARMS and CEP into the learning environment. Food deserts and schools that provide FARMS highlight the importance of addressing the economic factors of food access. They focus on guaranteeing that everyone in neighborhoods and schools has appropriate access to nutritious food.
Food deserts make it difficult for people to receive affordable, healthy food. This can involve having a limited number of farms, grocery stores, and fresh food sources. Recognizing that food deserts are a growing problem in MoCo is critical. 2022 – 2025 Community Needs Assessment reveals fewer places nearby to get nutritious meals. The Need — Community FarmShare provides data demonstrating that many people in the DC Metropolitan area face food insecurity, with 49% of households with children experiencing it at some point.
Through partnerships with several MoCo public schools, Community FarmShare is helping by providing the necessary services to students, families, and communities. They run several programs, such as the Farm Produce Bag program, which helps families by delivering fresh produce bags weekly. This will allow families to eat healthier weekly and encourage improved learning and academic performance due to receiving healthier meals.
Schools that participate in FARMS (Free and Reduced Meal Programs) provide nutritious meals to students from low-income families for little to no cost. This is important for schools to offer since it guarantees that all students, regardless of income, receive the right nutrition. MoCo is eliminating the requirement for students enrolled in CEP to apply to FARMS. Depending on household size and income, non-CEP school students may be eligible. Students enrolled in any of the new 58 MCPS schools with CEP this school year will be eligible to receive free breakfast and lunch, regardless of income.
Schools must implement FARMS because it improves academic performance, addresses food insecurity, and enhances equality and family budgeting. FARMS supports students’ physical and mental well-being as regular, nutritious meals promote healthy growth and development. It demonstrates the school’s care for the well-being of students and cultivates a sense of community support. MoCo is taking steps to address this issue of food deserts by introducing FARMS and other school programs.
Written by Miley Thomas of Seneca Valley High School and Montgomery Virtual Academy
Photo Courtesy of National Presbyterian Church