WHEREAS,
Accessing healthy food is a challenge for many families, particularly those living in low income neighborhoods and communities of color
; and
WHEREAS,
Living closer to healthy food retail is among the factors associated with better eating habits and decreased risk for obesity and diet-related diseases
; and
WHEREAS, Healthy food retailers such as grocery stores, farmers’ markets, healthy corner stores, and other vendors of fresh, affordable, nutritious food are critical components of healthy, thriving communities; and
WHEREAS,
2017 marks the 25th Anniversary of The Food Trust, a Philadelphia-based non-profit recognized throughout the United States and internationally for its good work and comprehensive approach that includes research, community-based programming and policy change
; and
WHEREAS, The Food Trust has partnered with the City of Philadelphia, the School District of Philadelphia and others to operate a network of farmers’ markets, provide nutrition education in schools and in the community, lead the HYPE Youth Programs, operate the Night Market street festivals, and lead the Pennsylvania Fresh Food Finance Initiative (FFFI), a statewide financing program which resulted in 88 grocery store projects, 5,000 jobs created or retained, and over 400,000 Pennsylvanians gaining access to healthy food; and
WHEREAS,
The success of the PA FFFI model has influenced the design and creation of similar programs in more than 10 states and at the federal level, helping millions of Americans lead healthier lives;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA,
That Council does honor and celebrate The Food Trust for its research, programs, and advocacy on behalf of a well-fed populace on the occasion of its 25th Anniversary.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to representatives of The Food Trust, evidencing the sincere admiration and respect of this legislative body.
End