“For I was hungry, and you gave me food …” Matthew 25:35

Centenary Methodist Church partners with Catholic Charities Food for All to address hunger in food deserts.

Food deserts are more common than you’d think in rural areas where grocery stores are sparse and public transportation limited. Food deserts can be found in urban neighborhoods and rural towns that lack access to fresh, healthy, and affordable food. Instead of supermarkets and grocery stores, these communities may be served only by fast food restaurants and convenience stores that offer few healthy, affordable food options. The lack of access contributes to a poor diet and can lead to higher levels of obesity and other diet-related diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease.

The USDA estimates 23.5 million people live in food deserts. More than half of these people are low-income. With more than 400,000 people living in poverty in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Catholic Charities is tackling food insecurity head-on by bringing every month a variety of nutritious food items to rural communities without established food pantries. Currently, Catholic Charities is partnering with other organizations to serve people in Adams, Brown, Clermont, Clinton and Highland Counties.