Connecting the Dots: How Limited Fresh Food Access Affects Health in OV’s Food Deserts – A NEWS9 Special Assignment

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ohio — In parts of Hancock, Jefferson, and Brooke counties, as well as the village of Wellsville, many residents struggle to find fresh and affordable food. These areas are known as food deserts, where it’s hard to access healthy options, especially fresh fruits and vegetables.

People often rely on processed foods from convenience stores and dollar stores instead of fresh produce.

Transportation is a big hurdle. In towns like New Manchester and Beech Bottom, there are limited public and private transport options. “Many people can’t get to a grocery store or even a food bank,” said Janna Gordon, director of the Brooke Hancock Family Resource Network. “Some have to walk a mile or two just to reach a store.”

This situation isn’t new. Over the years, many grocery stores have closed in the Ohio Valley, especially after the local steel mills shut down. “Years ago, Steubenville had plenty of grocery stores,” said Mary Snyder, who runs a summer farmer’s market in the area. “As the economy declined, so did those stores, and now there are almost none in downtown.”

While dollar stores have filled the gap, many locals find their food options lacking. “The processed foods at Dollar Tree and Dollar General are just not healthy,” Snyder said. “When a label has over 20 ingredients, most of which you can’t even identify, that’s a sign it’s heavily processed.”

The lack of fresh food impacts health seriously. West Virginia has the highest adult obesity rate in the U.S. at 41.2%. “If children don’t get a balanced diet, it affects their growth and development,” Gordon explained.

There’s a small store called Steubenville Grocery Box, but residents like Rich Delatore believe more options are needed. “We need a nice grocery store downtown,” he said. “There are enough people walking around who would support it.”

Fortunately, some organizations are working to improve food access. The Brooke Hancock FRN is helping by creating calendars that list food distribution events and meal services. They received $15,000 to buy a van for mobile food banks and pop-up pantries. Another $15,000 grant established blessing cabinets—mini food pantries where people can take what they need—in locations like the New Manchester Fire Department and outside the FRN in Weirton. They plan to expand to Chester and Hooverson Heights.

Local businesses are aware of the issue too. “Finding fresh food is tough here,” said Drazen Frankovitch, owner of EzFresh Meals. “There used to be small shops, but now it’s mostly big corporations.”

Snyder also pointed out that while the farmer’s market offers fresh, local produce, it’s only available once a week from June to October. “During the rest of the year, options are really limited,” she said. “Healthy foods shouldn’t be so hard to find.”

The long-term goal is to ensure everyone has access to fresh, nutritious food. Gordon expressed, “We want to bring in more fruits, vegetables, and proteins. It’s crucial for everyone to have these options.”

Despite ongoing efforts, the problem persists. “Living in a food desert shouldn’t be a reality,” Gordon stated. “With the right resources and knowledge, we can work together to change this situation.”