In an effort to combat health disparities in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood, a new program called the Farm to Table trolley tour aims to increase access to fresh food sources. This area, often referred to as a food desert, has been targeted for health interventions due to prevalent conditions like kidney and heart disease. Crystal Dyer, a key organizer behind the initiative, collaborated with DePaul University to conduct health disparity mapping, highlighting the urgent need for residents to access fresh produce.
The trolley tour not only introduces participants to local community gardens but also educates them on growing their own food. Participants like Cynthia Streeter and Darryl Bolling-Petross praised the experience, noting its beauty and the importance of knowledge in gardening. The initiative showcases approximately 23 community gardens, with about 10 dedicated to growing fruits and vegetables, reinforcing the idea that fresh food is accessible even in underserved areas.
Kenyana Walker, youth program coordinator at Build Chicago, emphasized the program’s role in providing youth-led tours. This allows young participants to share their learning experiences and connect with community efforts. The trolley operates twice a month and is free of charge, aiming to promote awareness of available fresh food resources, ultimately addressing ethnic and racial health disparities in a nurturing and educational environment.
See “Chicago trolley tour transforming access to fresh food” (August 29, 2024)
