LoRes-TV: Local Food Making Philly Healthier

If you've ever driven through any of Philadelphia's more humble neighborhoods, you'll notice there aren't many options if you'd like to grab ingredients for a quick salad or some fresh fruit for dessert. Access to food has become a significant public health issue here, where in some areas 70 percent of children are overweight. Multiple organizations are addressing the problem in innovative ways, including an initiative to bring local food within 10 minutes of 75 percent of city residents.

The city's Department of Public Health was awarded federal dollars from the Centers for Disease Control to provide access to healthy and affordable food in several underserved neighborhoods. Fresh, local fruit and vegetables are now being served at five Philly high schools, and that number should increase fourfold by next year. The Food Trust also plans on increasing the city's 18 farmer's markets by more than 50 percent--all the markets accept food stamps.

In addition, the city is repurposing farm land in Fairmount Park to grow produce that will be sold to supermarkets and locals alike. The city's Healthy Corner Store Initiative has also added more nutritious options like water, juice and fruits to its racks. The following video explains the various ways Philadelphia is becoming a national model for innovative ways to improve health through our food environment.