In the fall of 2010, with volunteer involvement, we administered surveys to 80 community members to learn more about nutrition and healthy food access. The highest percentage (34%) said the store where they shop at most for produce is 12 or more blocks away. 83% of people stated they want to include more fruits and vegetables in their diet. But when asked what is preventing them from doing so, 24
% of those surveyed said “to far to travel to buy them” and 8% noted it’s “too expensive.” In response to the inadequate access, 31% “sometimes” relies on canned vegetables and 41% “sometimes” relies on frozen vegetables. Additionally, two focus groups, one involving all Pomonok residents and another, only seniors in the community, supported the need for better access to fresh and affordable produce in the vicinity. In winter of 2011 we pulled together key members of QCH sponsored senior center PAC and Community Building Captains Committee who reviewed the information and suggested the community invest in developing a farmers market. This group of dedicated volunteers continues to meet once a month and is identified as the Healthy Food Access Planning Team. In preparation for establishing a Community-Run Farmer’s Market, Just Food trained about 12 Planning Team members including seniors and staff members. The 4-session training provided information on how to start, run and grow a community-run farmer’s market. To further our connection and partnership with the community QCH called together a Market Advisory Group made up of local churches, local elementary school P.S.201Q, John Bowne High School, Pomonok Library, local businesses, and Queens Botanical Garden who have also assisted with outreach and host posters.
