In Drew, Mississippi, Melinda Davis finds joy in cooking greens—turnips, mustards, and collards—using her mother’s cherished recipes. Each step is a ritual, from washing the fresh greens in cool water to simmering them with neckbones and spices. As the flavors meld together, the warm scent fills her kitchen.
Melinda, a diabetic and caregiver, needs access to fresh, healthy foods. Unfortunately, Drew is a food desert, meaning residents struggle to find nutritious options close by. The nearest grocery store is 20 minutes away, forcing her to make long drives for produce. In a town where nearly 39% live below the poverty line, this burden is heavy.
At a local event organized by the Southern Poverty Law Center, community leaders discussed the ongoing issue of food insecurity in rural Mississippi. David Ray Smith, an SPLC intern, highlighted that many rural areas face health challenges due to lack of resources. “We must advocate for better access to food and healthcare,” he urged.
Mississippi Rep. Tracey Rosebud also spoke, emphasizing the need for collective action. “We can’t ignore our neighbors’ struggles,” she said. “Change starts with us.”
Efforts to tackle food insecurity include the We2gether Creating Change Food Pantry. Located in an old National Guard Armory, it supports around 550 families monthly. According to volunteer Betty Smith, while funding cuts have impacted food supplies, they continue to provide necessary assistance thanks to local partnerships.
Gloria Dickerson, a community activist, shared innovative programs developed to help meet the needs of families in Drew. One initiative, the Grocery Online Delivery Service, allows residents to order from a nearby Walmart, which is then delivered to their doorstep—a game changer for many who lack transportation.
Thanks to a significant grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, a garden program has been launched, giving families the tools to grow their own food. Melinda Davis is one of the recipients, eager to cultivate her favorite greens and expand her garden. “Maybe I’ll try tomatoes next,” she said, filled with hope for her new venture.
Drew, once a thriving town, faces many challenges, but the community is resilient and committed to growth. Whether through gardens, food pantries, or online services, the people of Drew are determined to overcome their food desert status and promote health within their community.
Source link
Drew,Food Desert,Home-Featured,Mississippi Delta,Southern Poverty Law Center,Sunflower County,Tracey Rosebud,W.K. Kellogg Foundation
