At a recent health and food fair in Oak Cliff, Helen Dulac showcased her homemade jams and jellies. This urban farmer, who also works with the nonprofit Grow North Texas, sees her mission as more than just selling produce. “I want people to know where their food comes from,” she said. Dulac teaches others how to farm successfully, emphasizing timing: “You wouldn’t plant tomatoes in winter, right?”
Her passion for farming reflects a growing movement called “food sovereignty.” This concept emphasizes the right of communities to control their own food systems. “Growing from seed to jam connects me to the Earth,” Dulac explains, illustrating how local food production can foster a deeper relationship with nature.
The event, found at Kiest Park Recreation Center, was hosted by Feed Oak Cliff. This nonprofit aims to tackle food deserts, areas where access to fresh and healthy food is limited. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a food desert is defined as an area where at least 33% of residents live more than a mile from a supermarket. This affects many communities, including Oak Cliff, which is mostly Hispanic and Black.
At VegFest, attendees discovered more than vegetables. Vendors offered a range of foods, from cinnamon rolls to dumplings. Anga Sanders, founder of Feed Oak Cliff, emphasizes that anyone can attend, regardless of their diet. “It’s not just for vegans,” she pointed out.
Experts note that food equity is essential for community health. People living in food deserts often face significantly higher rates of chronic illness. While the Black Vegetarian Society of Texas works to educate about the health benefits of plant-based diets, they also address unique challenges faced by Black communities. “We want to make vegetarianism accessible and relatable,” says Donald Moy, the group’s president.
The fight against food deserts remains challenging. Recently, federal support for food programs has faced rollbacks, especially under the Trump administration. As a result, Texas remains at the top of the list for hunger issues. In the Dallas-Fort Worth area alone, recent studies show that one in seven people faces food insecurity.
Despite these hurdles, Sanders remains hopeful. She envisions a community grocery store, a restaurant with healthy meals, and a training center for local workers. This project could help uplift the community. “We deserve better access to healthy food and economic opportunities,” she asserts.
Efforts like these are crucial, not only for improving health outcomes but for empowering communities. By connecting people with food sources and educational resources, organizations like Feed Oak Cliff are building a brighter future for Oak Cliff.
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