Lecture on Food Deserts in South Memphis

Introduction

• Food Difference in America: 23.5 million Americans live in areas with limited access to quality food, known as food deserts.
• Focus on South Memphis: Identified lack of access to food as a significant need.

Context of South Memphis

• Easily accessible fast food but lack of quality food.
• Historical context: White flight and urban sprawl left many areas vacant and devoid of grocery stores.
• Consequence: Small family-owned grocery stores replaced by liquor stores.

Definition of Food Desert

• Areas where the majority don't have access to supermarkets.
• High percentage of residents without transportation.
• Example: Closest supermarkets are 2.3 and 2.5 miles away; 1/3 of residents lack car access.

Personal Stories

• De Louis Bateman: Struggles with transportation for grocery shopping, relies on basic and quick foods.
• Chell William: Has to take long bus rides for groceries, highlighting the inconvenience and stress.

Comparison of Areas

• East Memphis vs. South Memphis:
  • East Memphis is affluent with multiple grocery stores in close proximity.
  • South Memphis lacks basic access to food outlets, highlighting economic disparity.

Challenges in Grocery Store Establishment

• Economic Viability: Difficulty in attracting grocery stores due to sparse population and perceived danger.
• Redlining Impact: Historical federal policies discourage investment in minority and low-income areas, affecting both residential mortgages and small businesses.

Health Implications

• Prevalence of diet-related health issues like diabetes and hypertension, even in young children.
• Lack of healthy food options contributes to poor health outcomes.

Solutions and Initiatives

• Community Efforts: South Memphis Farmers Market as a response to community needs for fresh food access.
• Education: Training families on healthy eating to combat health issues.

Conclusion

• Individual blame is ineffective; need to address systemic environmental issues.
• Emphasis on creating community change and improving access to healthy food options.

Cultural Reflections

• Poetic Expression: Highlights the stigma and challenges faced by residents using food stamps.

Key Takeaway: Addressing food deserts requires understanding the socio-economic and historical context, improving transportation and food access, and investing in community-driven solutions.