Date

5-2025

Document Type

Capstone Project (Campus-Only Access)

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Department

Health, Human Services and Public Policy

Major

Interdisciplinary: Social Work & Public Health

Abstract

Access to healthy foods is essential for maintaining good health, yet many Gonzales residents face challenges such as high costs, limited availability, and unawareness. The project was implemented by Savor the Local in partnership with the City of Gonzales and the Community Alliance with Family Farmers, organizations that support local agriculture and food access through community-based initiatives. This project, food distribution, serves the residents of Gonzales, a diverse, primarily working-class community, many of whom face systemic barriers to accessing nutritious, affordable food. The purpose of this was to promote healthy eating, improve awareness of where to access healthy foods, and reduce obesity rates. This was a community outreach and education project that included the distribution of an informational pamphlet, a follow-up survey, and support for additional initiatives such as a community garden and healthy cooking classes. Expected outcomes included increased community knowledge, identification of food access barriers, and improved awareness of healthy food options within the community. Survey results showed that eight participants gained a better understanding of the importance of healthy eating and identified some reasons as to why residents were not easily accessing healthy foods. The project successfully met its goals of increasing awareness and gathering feedback on current barriers to healthy food access. To further address food access issues, the City of Gonzales can continue to host regular healthy cooking workshops, increase promotion of the community garden, explore partnerships with local stores to offer discounts or incentives on healthy food purchases, and continue to have food distributions. Continued community engagement and feedback will be key to creating a change.

Download
Off-campus Download

Share

COinS