Gillibrand proposes measure to take on food deserts

The Associated Press is reporting in the Boston Herald online today that New York Senator Kristen Gillibrand has proposed legislation that would allocate $1 billion in loans and grants towards establishing grocery stores in the nation's areas that lack access to fresh, healthier foods.

"Gillibrand said the measure would help about four million New York residents living in so-called food deserts by providing the funding for more than 350 stores statewide, many in low-income areas." A food desert is a geographic area that is isolated from access to grocery stores or super-centers--places that could provide access to fresher, healthier food options than, say, a corner store.

The legislation is mirrored after a similar program in Pennsylvania. The loans and grants would be used "to expand access to fresh foods and to create jobs," reports the AP. Earlier, in his 2011 budget proposal, President Obama allocated $345 million for a similar measure. Gillibrand also believes the legislation will help fight obesity by making nutritious foods more readily available.

To read the article in the Boston Herald online, click here.

Posted: 04/13/10