A recent study of Farmshare Austin’s outreach to low-income communities in Central Texas showed growing usage, resulting in greater consumption of fruits and vegetables by vulnerable residents. The study from UTHealth Houston School of Public Health found that the Fresh for Less Mobile Markets and Home Delivery program had 42 percent of mobile users shopping four or more times per month for affordable produce and staple goods grown in Texas. For home delivery customers, the figure climbed to 71 percent. Food insecurity is a problem for 46 percent of respondents. The evaluation also found that customers were highly satisfied with the quality and variety of products offered, as well as with the affordability of the items. Recommended improvements include expanding the variety of produce and staple goods, increasing awareness of the program and its benefits, and exploring new ways to reach underserved communities.
Chad Swiatecki is a 20-year journalist who relocated to Austin from his home state of Michigan in 2008. He most enjoys covering the intersection of arts, business and local/state politics. He has written... More by Chad Swiatecki