July 2016

Equitable Development: The Path to an All-In Pittsburgh

Overview

Pittsburgh is on the rise. After decades of decline following the collapse of the steel industry, the region has successfully transformed its manufacturing economy into one driven by knowledge and technology. This resurgence brings great potential to deliver long-awaited jobs, economic opportunities, and neighborhood improvements to the region’s low-income communities and communities of color. However, the benefits of new growth and development will not automatically trickle down without a focus on equitable development. Produced by PolicyLink, along with Neighborhood Allies, and Urban Innovation21, this report presents a five-point agenda for realizing the vision of a new, “all-in” Pittsburgh, in which everyone can thrive, and highlights 16 specific recommendations for action. Download summary here.

Convenience Store Distribution Options for Fresh Produce

Overview

Published by the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) and the United Fresh Produce Association, this new resource looks at distribution options available to store owners and provides an overview of the various options available to retailers seeking to increase their fresh produce offerings.

Greensboro Fresh Food Access Plan

Overview

The City's Fresh Food Access Plan focuses on increasing retail access to fresh, local produce in Greensboro’s food deserts. The plan was made possible by a grant from a US Department of Agriculture (USDA) program aimed at supporting local food business enterprises that connect farmers with consumers. This includes expanding entrepreneurial opportunities both for local farmers and residents interested in starting local food-related businesses.
 

Assessing and Addressing Farm Worker Food Security, Yolo County, 2015

Overview

California Institute for Rural Studies assessed the food assistance resources in Yolo County and the level of food insecurity among selected Yolo County farm workers living in a rural food desert. The project was designed to address the USDA Community Food Projects Competitive Grant Program priorities by determining the level of farm worker food security and planning long-term solutions utilizing the existing network of food assistance resources in Yolo County.
 

Effects of Proximity to Supermarkets on a Randomized Trial Studying Interventions for Obesity

Overview

This study assessed whether proximity to a supermarket modified the effects of an obesity intervention for participating children aged 6 to 12 years with a body mass index (BMI) at or above the 95th percentile. Authors found that living closer to a supermarket is associated with greater improvements in fruit and vegetable intake and weight status in an obesity intervention. 

Profile: Virginia Fresh Food Loan Fund

Overview

In 2013, Virginia Community Capital (VCC) launched the Virginia Fresh Food Loan Fund to enhance access to nutritious foods in Virginia’s inner cities, small towns, and rural communities. As a community development financial institution (CDFI), VCC supports small businesses and community development projects by offering flexible capital, investment opportunities, and advisory services.

Running a Food Hub: Assessing Financial Viability

Overview

This report is volume 3 of USDA’s food hub technical report series and provides modules, best practices, and financial benchmarks for different stages of business development for food hubs to assess their own financial viability and assist in making strategic business decisions to maximize profits and control costs.

May 2016

An Equitable Food System: Good for Families, Communities, and the Economy

Overview

This issue brief describes the benefits of building an equitable food system for families, communities, and the economy.

Find other equity briefs here.

May 2016

Just and Fair Employment for All: Good for Families, Communities, and the Economy

Overview

This issue brief describes how connecting people to just and fair work benefits families, communities, and the economy.

Find other equity briefs here.

May 2016

High-Quality Education for All: Good for Families, Communities, and the Economy

Overview

This issue brief describes how creating an equitable pre-K through 12 educational system can benefit families, communities, and the economy.

Find other equity briefs here.

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