Food Trust Having Positive Impact On Childhood Obesity

By Dr. Marciene Mattleman

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Philadelphia has the highest rate of childhood obesity and highest rate of poverty of the nation's largest cities. However, according to the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, in the past few years obesity has declined among children due to efforts by The Food Trust.

The Trust provides nutrition education in schools, community centers, corner stores and even at farmers' markets. One program developed by AmeriCorps VISTA members is the Urban Farmers' Market Tours - a free program allowing community members to become familiar with shopping at farmers' markets.

The tour guides walk people through the market and arrange shopping for those looking to increase their fruit and vegetable intake.

AmeriCorps VISTA members at The Food Trust's Farmers' Market Program have also helped to make these tours accessible to those with SNAP (food stamp) benefits, allowing shoppers to use their ACCESS cards at any of The Trust's farmers' markets around the city.

In:
• Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
• Philadelphia