Increasing access to fresh produce by pairing urban farms with corner stores: a case study in a low-income urban setting

摘要

ObjectiveOur objective was to pilot collaborations between two urban farms with two corner stores to increase access to fresh produce in low-income neighbourhoods.DesignWe conducted a pre-post evaluation of two farm-store collaborations using quantitative distribution and sales data. Using semi-structured interviews, we qualitatively assessed feasibility of implementation and collaboration acceptability to farmers and storeowners.SettingLow-income urban neighbourhoods in Baltimore, MD, USA in 2012.SubjectsPair #1 included a 025 acre (01 ha) urban farm with a store serving local residents and was promoted by the neighbourhood association. Pair #2 included a 2 acre (08 ha) urban farm with a store serving bus commuters.ResultsProduce was delivered all nine intervention weeks in both pairs. Pair #1 produced a significant increase in the mean number of produce varieties carried in the store by 113 (P001) and sold 86 % of all items delivered. Pair #2 resulted in a non-significant increase in the number of produce varieties carried by 22 (P=044) and sold 63 % of all items delivered.ConclusionsOur case study suggests that pairing urban farms with corner stores for produce distribution may be feasible and could be a new model to increase access to fruits and vegetables among low-income urban neighbourhoods. For future programmes to be successful, strong community backing may be vital to support produce sales.