Ohio’s Food Insecurity Issue

A recent map produced by the Institute for Local Self Reliance shows that food deserts are present in communities in all 50 states, but in Ohio, they’re growing.  Food deserts are communities where at least a third of the population live a mile or more from a full-service grocery store in urban areas. In rural areas, food desert residents live 10 miles or more away from their local grocery store. Ohio has an increasing number of these communities, with citizens unable to regularly access healthy, affordable food. The Ohio State Legislature is attempting to create a food desert elimination grant program through Ohio House Bill 543. The bill, which has been stuck in committee since October would help local convince stores sell fresher, healthier foods, filling the gap between those who live in food deserts and those who do not. Our Health Equity advocates for practical solutions, like this bill, that ensure widespread availability to nutritious and accessible food for all Americans. Read more here.