Transforming North Tulsa: A Fresh Solution to Food Deserts

Merlon Jones has spent most of his life making unhealthy food choices. Diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and heart issues, the retired cement mason underwent quadruple bypass surgery in 2013. Now, he’s ready for a change.

In Tulsa, Jones is among many who benefit from FreshRx Oklahoma, a non-profit organization that partners with local farms to provide free, nutritious food for those with Type 2 diabetes. Backed by the Rockefeller Foundation, FreshRx aims to harness the power of good food to improve health.

Since its start in 2021, FreshRx Oklahoma has offered a food prescription program that includes fresh produce every two weeks, cooking classes, and quarterly health screenings. This initiative is vital in North Tulsa, long labeled a food desert. For years, residents had to travel out of town just to buy groceries until a local store opened its doors in 2021.

The diabetes crisis is serious in Oklahoma, with nearly 13% of adults diagnosed, according to the American Diabetes Association. FreshRx is working to change that.

Merlon believes that FreshRx has transformed his life. “This program has taught me how to lower my blood pressure and A1c levels,” he says. “I’ve learned how to cook vegetables in a way that makes them taste great.”

His results reflect the program’s impact: graduates have seen an average drop of 2.2% in A1c levels. Merlon feels energized, stating, “I wake up feeling better. I’ve got greens running through my body.”

Programs like FreshRx are not just about food; they’re about education. According to recent studies, nutrition education can significantly improve health outcomes for people with Type 2 diabetes. By teaching individuals how to cook and prepare healthy meals, these initiatives empower them to take control of their health.

As food access becomes a critical issue across the country, organizations like FreshRx serve as a blueprint for creating healthier communities. They demonstrate that by addressing food insecurity, we can tackle chronic health conditions more effectively.

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