NORFOLK, Va. — Getting healthy food can be tough in some parts of Hampton Roads. To address this, the Elizabeth River Project has teamed up with local businesses to provide fresh meals to the Southside of Norfolk.
The Southside Farmer Market has opened on Melon Street. This market aims to offer fresh produce without long trips or high prices. Ru Williams from the Elizabeth River Project emphasizes that food security links directly to environmental health.
“Food security is closely tied to our efforts in environmental restoration,” Williams said. “By sourcing food sustainably, we reduce carbon emissions. Fresh, local food is much better for the planet than mass-produced items.”
Alycia Archer from Breakthrough Glow Counseling played a vital role in starting the market. She underlined the community’s serious need for access to fresh food.
“Many people in our area depend on government assistance. We only have one grocery store, and transportation is a big problem. It’s important that locals can walk to get what they need,” Archer noted.
Local farmer Thelonius Cook, who owns Mighty Thundercloud Edible Forest, stressed the importance of healthy eating.
“Many folks are stuck eating processed foods, which harms their health,” Cook said. “Preventable diseases like obesity and mental health issues are often tied to poor nutrition. Kids struggling in school frequently face nutrition problems.”
LaQuita Marie of Superfood Parents showcased fresh produce from Cook’s farm and held live cooking demos to illustrate how fresh ingredients can replace processed foods in everyday meals.
“I’ve spent 30 years as a nurse working with underserved communities,” Marie shared. “I’ve witnessed how better nutrition improves health for everyone, not just those who are struggling.”
Alycia Archer added, “To reach our full potential, we must first meet our basic needs, including food.”
The Southside Farmer Market will be open every second Sunday from March to November, providing vital resources for the Norfolk community.
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