How Can We Green Food Deserts in Los Angeles?

In my last blog post, I discussed the meaning of “food deserts”. Hopefully, my explanation was basic and thorough enough. Most Americans may not realize what a food desert is as I, myself, was guilty of not knowing this as a Public Management major. But the problem of food deserts are still prevalent in many low-income areas of Los Angeles. For the basis of my research, I will focus on specific areas of the Los Angeles County such as South LA. By taking several courses at the Price School of Public Policy, I have gained knowledge to think more analytically and to advocate in what you believe that can be changed. I am definitely interested in healthy nutrition and I believe that all people from any social class should have the accessibility and benefits from eating healthy. South LA residents’ accessibility to these foods within their neighborhood would make a significant difference to their happiness level and would possibly lower the rates of obesity or other health related problems.

 

Since, our society as a whole is moving towards sustainable and eco-friendly living, why not take  low-income urban areas in that direction as well?

My proposal would be to put more effort into a community focused environment so the problem of food deserts would no longer be a pervasive issue. A community-driven solution would definitely help the South LA community express their concerns about not having a grocery store that offers fresh fruits and vegetables as well as provide healthy nutrition education. Education is what drives people to be engaged, active and create innovative solutions for policy reform or initiatives. We must start fostering this education at the younger generation.  Farmers markets, community gardens, and community-supported agriculture would also serve as beneficial alternatives. 

I feel that people have lost a sense of community as our lives are so busy with work, school and family life. But engaging in group activities such as planting a community garden and having monthly nutrition or cooking workshops would bolster social capital to South LA residents. This will be a long process that policymakers will have to overcome but the long-term benefits of health are so rewarding and fruitful.

Hey Man, What's A Food Desert?

Is it some kind of place that sells desserts?

For my final research project, I will be focusing on the topic of food deserts in South Los Angeles. I know you are probably thinking, "What is a food desert?" A food desert as the Center for Disease Control summarizes as, "... areas that lack access to fresh options to affordable fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lowfat milk, and other foods that make up the range of a healthy diet" (CDC).

Even after this clarification, though, a question arises, "What is considered a healthy diet for residents who live in low-income areas?" This makes me wonder...

The fields that I would want to explore would be in health policy and psychology or public health. I am a Public Management major but have always had a strong interest in nutrition. I was even considering a career as a Registered Dietician in the past but let's say... science courses do not mesh well with me.

However, by being a Public Management major at the Price School of Public Policy, I can express my concerns to the Los Angeles County of Public Health through a policy memo. The chances that my voice will be heard may be slim, but it is a start. I am a firm believer that fresh foods can be beneficial to one's physical and mental well-being. Whenever I eat processed foods, my body immediately can feel the effects---maybe that's my body's weird reaction.

I have never personally had trouble with healthy nutrition because I live in an area where Trader Joes, Sprouts Farmers Market, Whole Foods and other chain supermarkets are all within reasonable distance. But, people who live in South LA do not have the luxury since even commonplace supermarkets like Ralphs or Vons are not within accessible distance. Many South LA residents have to travel a long distance to the inner city to buy fresh, healthy foods.

But who wants to drive when you are already burnt out from the day???

As a result, a lot of low-income residents turn toward... FAST FOOD. We live in a society in which everything is fast-paced. So why not? Indulge...?

The Golden Arches. Mickey D's. An American cure-all when food is scarce.

Run, Forrest, Run!-Trial Entry

"My momma always said, "Life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get". -Forrest Gump, 1994

I have chosen to write my essay on the classic American comedy-drama romance film Forrest Gump. I have watched Forrest Gump numerous times when I was a teenager as the movie was occasionally shown on the TBS channel. When I first watched Forrest Gump, I was unsure about the meaning that renowned film director, Robert Zemeckis, was trying to get across to his audience. However, as I watched Forrest Gump again as an older individual, there were many poignant points in the movie that made Zemeckis’ movie so special. Zemeckis did base his movie off of Winston Groom’s 1986 novel, Forrest Gump, but the film director drew some background inspiration as the film's events differed substantially from Groom’s novel.

People who are followers of Groom’s novel might disagree or be angry at Zemeckis portrayal of the character, Forrest Gump, as being “too soft”.  When the author saw the movie, he stated that Forrest had “…some of the rough edges off” as actor; Tom Hanks, was chosen to play the role of the main character. The author envisioned actor, John Goodman, to play the role.

I was always a fan of director, Rob Zemeckis’ work as he created so many successful movies such as Back to the Future. I enjoyed watching the Back to the Future sequels, as they were always entertaining despite the similar plot line. I was amused by the eccentricity of Doc Brown’s character. Thus, I always try to watch every film that Zemeckis produce, as I know that his films are of high quality as he draws his audience to his art. With Forrest Gump, Zemeckis adapted from Groom’s 1986 novel beautifully; however, fans of the novel will not be pleased entirely.