Adequate food access across the state has become a topic of discussion among Kentucky officials. Part of the issue is the prevalence of food deserts across the state. Officials recently heard comments and information from Jordan Ogile, advocacy manager for the nonprofit group Feeding Kentucky.
Ogile said low food security in the state leads to disrupted eating patterns and low food intake. Four Kentucky counties currently rank nationally when it comes to food insecurity.
“Right now, we are looking at north of 700,000 Kentuckians facing a chronic lack of nutrition that is secure, and this is concerning to us,” said Ogile.
Officials said food insecurity can lead to not only chronic illness, but also a decrease in employability and an increase in healthcare expenditures. This in turn will then decrease household income and the amount of money a person or family can spend on buying food.
Food insecurity and food deserts go hand in hand, as many neighborhoods or communities have limited access and availability to affordable nutritious foods. Ogile said one organization in Kentucky is working to bring nutritious foods straight to these communities.
“The Lexington Mobile Market is a great example. It's a great option for expanding food access reach. It's coordinated by our very own God's Pantry, which is centered out of Lexington. It covers, I believe, close to 40 counties in Kentucky. And it brings Kroger neighborhood style markets to local communities, emphasizing local produce,” said Ogile.
Ogile said this approach brings fresh food to people in rural or disconnected areas without a Kroger or Walmart within reach.
Additionally, the program takes SNAP benefits, making nutritious food more affordable to shoppers. Officials said they hope more programs like this will be created across the state alongside increasing SNAP benefits to assist Kentuckians facing hunger and food insecurity.