Tulsa, Oklahoma faces a pressing issue: many families struggle to find fresh groceries. Food On The Move reports that one in six Oklahomans deals with food insecurity. To tackle this, the nonprofit has broadened its grocery bag program this year to include essential items like protein, dairy, and shelf-stable goods.
This change came after listening to community needs, especially during last year’s SNAP challenges tied to the government shutdown. Families expressed a need for more complete meals, prompting the organization to adapt its offerings. “When we responded during the SNAP crisis, we realized just how critical the situation was for families,” said Tina Parkhill, CEO of Food On The Move. “We listened and made changes based on their needs.”
The freshly updated grocery bags now provide a well-rounded assortment of food, making it easier for families to prepare balanced meals at home. Volunteer Karen Newton highlighted a significant challenge: “There are parts of Tulsa referred to as food deserts, where access to fresh produce is limited.”
This endeavor wouldn’t be possible without dedicated volunteers. “Our volunteers are key. They help us organize everything and ensure our guests get what they need,” Parkhill added. On a recent day, 300 grocery bags were prepared, benefiting around 300 families with nutritious food.
The nonprofit also hosts a monthly Food and Resource Festival at its northwest Tulsa hub. This event is open to everyone in the community and offers further assistance. This month, the festival takes place on Tuesday from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.
Food insecurity is not just a local issue; it’s a national concern. Recent statistics show that about 10.5% of U.S. households experienced food insecurity in 2021, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Efforts like those of Food On The Move are vital to addressing this challenge on both local and national levels.
As we look toward the future, the awareness of food deserts and nutritional access remains crucial. Initiatives focused on community input, like the one from Food On The Move, are steps in the right direction, helping ensure that all families can access healthy, nutritious food.
For more info on this nonprofit, check out their website: Food On The Move.
